F1 Today | Formula 1 releases joint statement against abuse, Verstappen's replacement eyed

23:28, 05 Jun

bySavannah Lenz

The Formula 1 world continues despite it not being a race week. Today, Formula 1, its feeder series, and the FIA released a joint statement. Sky Sports commentator David Croft remarked about Lewis Hamilton's retirement rumours, and many wonder who could replace Max Verstappen if he received a race ban.

Joint statement against abuse

Together, Formula 1, 2, 3 and the FIA all released a statement against online abuse. The four entities came together to make it known that they would not tolerate the ongoing trend of cyberbullying. The statement read:

"On behalf of our Teams and Drivers, F1, F2, F3 and the FIA, through their United Against Online Abuse campaign, firmly condemn abuse and harassment of any form. We'll continue to collectively act upon and report abuse to social media platforms. Whether you are a fan or a part of the motorsport world, we are all driven by passion. At the heart of it all, there are humans. We urge everyone to remain respectful towards the athletes and their teams."

Croft on Hamilton's retirement

After some abysmal results from Hamilton sparked the debate on whether or not he should retire, Croft took to the Briton's defence. He said, "Lewis will be around next year. He's not going anywhere."

Hamilton has not adjusted as readily as one would hope, which Croft addressed as well.

"We were all hoping for more positives, to be honest, especially after China in the sprint, when he looked an absolute world-beater once again."

He then tells the fans, "Let's try and offer a bit of hope on this one for him."

Who can replace Verstappen?

Verstappen only has one more penalty point until he faces a race ban. With that, many look to who could replace him if he were to receive a ban. The highest on the list seems to be Isack Hadjar. The Racing Bulls rookie has seriously impressed Red Bull and spectators with his driving skills. Then next would be other RB driver, Liam Lawson.

Red Bull Racing has plenty of drivers to pick from but one interesting pick would be Red Bull Junior, Arvid Lindbald. The team has recently requested that he be allowed to receive a super license before turning 18.