F1 pundit jumps to Verstappen's defense after chaotic Belgian GP start
Max Verstappen could do no better than fourth place at the Belgian Grand Prix. Due to the heavy rain delaying the start significantly, Verstappen’s wet-weather setup proved ineffective. After the race, the Dutchman voiced strong criticism of the FIA—a view supported by Robert Doornbos.
During the post-race discussion at Ziggo Sport Race Café: De Stamtafel, the Belgian Grand Prix was thoroughly analysed.
Max Verstappen had earlier voiced criticism of the decision to delay the start, and Robert Doornbos agreed with him, pointing out a key argument suggesting the race could have gone ahead as planned.
“I think what Max was referring to—that chaos in the opening lap—is exactly where a driver can make the difference,” Doornbos said.
“I always say this honestly: if you can’t go full throttle on the straight and your car turns into a boat, then it’s no longer racing—and that’s something no one wants, especially considering what has happened there in the past. In my opinion, from what I heard on the team radios, everyone was able to go flat-out on the straights.”
Doornbos was also critical of the FIA’s decision not to allow the use of wet tires: "Max definitely had a point there. ‘Let’s run more laps and keep going, because that’s when the spray clears.’ If you really see a layer of standing water... that’s truly life-threatening in a Formula 1 car."
“Pirelli brings those wet tires but doesn’t use them—then just leave them at home. Formula 1 is focused on sustainability; how many sets are they even bringing? That’s extra weight. Either use them, improve them, or don’t bring them at all. It definitely hurts the show.”
Verstappen receives widespread support after criticism of FIA
Max Verstappen was not alone in his criticism of the FIA. After the Dutch driver voiced concerns about the delayed race start, Lewis Hamilton echoed his sentiments. International media also expressed strong criticism of the FIA’s decision.
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