Max Verstappen had little fun today at the Japanese Grand Prix on the Suzuka circuit. The Dutchman was stuck behind the Alpine van for almost the entire race Pierre Gasly, and that made Verstappen go crazy. He even decided to wave to the Frenchman during the race.
Verstappen had a reasonable race on the Suzuka circuit. He started in a disappointing eleventh position, but then managed to work his way up. Ultimately, he ended up in eighth position and had to chase the Alpine of his former teammate Pierre Gasly. The Alpine was very fast, but it was not possible to pass him.
What happened during the race?
Verstappen stated afterwards that the batteries made it impossible to actually complete an overtake, and he could barely hide his frustration and sarcasm. Even during the race it was not possible for him to hide those emotions. In fact, Verstappen decided to wave pleasantly to Gasly when the Frenchman managed to regain seventh position.
The images of Verstappen waving are circulating the internet, and many fans sympathize with him. Verstappen also made no secret of the fact that he did not like the race, and he stated that he wanted to think about his future again.
Sporty reaction
After the race, Verstappen showed his sporty side and sent his Red Bull next to the Alpine during the run-off lap. He looked at the Frenchman, made contact and gave the Alpine driver a thumbs up. Eighth place was nothing more than a cover for the bleeding for Verstappen, who is going crazy about the new rules in Formula 1. He has already expressed his criticism several times and stated that he is going to think about his future. In the coming weeks he will probably be in action at the Nürburgring, something he can enjoy.
not verstappen waving to the alpine 🤣 pic.twitter.com/N5V60ExdPA
— Sonia ~ ALD1 IS 8 🏎️🏁 (@youngchiii) March 29, 2026
