- Verstappen and Hamilton faced 320kph near-miss during Japanese practice.
- Stewards investigated the high-speed incident involving a dead battery at the 130R.
- Contrasting views on 2026 regulations spark debate as Russell leads the standings.
Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton were involved in a concerning incident in the Japanese Grand Prix’s first practice session, which was later investigated by the stewards.
Both world champions have contradicting views on the modern F1 regulations. After the Chinese GP, Hamilton praised the new regs, saying that it’s the best form of racing in a long-time. Alternatively, Verstappen have consistently expressed his frustration with new rules, believing that the sport has become just an electrical management exercise.
Despite their differing views, this latest incident drew massive attention towards the potential concerns around energy deployment. It also highlighted how a minor incident could disrupt a driver’s lap and could have potentially led to a dangerous collision between the two, raising questions around safety.
The first practice ended with Hamilton and Verstappen ending up 6th and 7th, respectively, in the standings. The fastest in the overall session was George Russell, followed by Kimi Antonelli and Lando Norris.
What was the incident between Hamilton and Verstappen in FP1?
The worrying incident happened at the iconic 130R (Turn 15) at the Suzuka circuit.
Verstappen was setting a lap, but it was affected unintentionally by Hamilton, who slowed down his Ferrari due to a dead battery. To avoid any potential collision, the Dutchman, who was approaching the area at 320kph per his onboard, pushed the brake, which cost him his lap.
He lost nearly 50 kph as he went through the corner. Verstappen was upset over the disruption as he clearly commented on the radio, “What the f**k!” However, neither of the drivers was at fault, as it was a battery issue for Hamilton.
However, due to a breach of one of the F1 regulations, Hamilton and Verstappen were both summoned by the stewards for further investigation.
The regulation in question is Article B1.8.5, which states, ” at no time may an F1 car be driven unnecessarily slowly, erratically or in a manner which could be deemed potentially dangerous.”
Upon investigation, it was learnt that Ferrari didn’t inform Hamilton over the radio that Verstappen was coming through.
Nevertheless, Verstappen managed to overtake his 2021 rival, despite the speed difference. The stewards then closed off the investigation, deeming that no further investigation was required.
Former Haas boss comments on Verstappen and Hamilton’s differing views on F1 new regs
The world champions have left the paddock divided with their contrasting views and seemingly interesting references for the new F1 regs.
The Dutchman often alludes to modern-day F1 as Mario Kart or “Formula E on steroids.” Whereas Hamilton thinks it’s like karting.
Gunther Steiner gave his two cents that their different opinions probably stem from where they currently stand with the new cars, pointing out that Hamilton has got a competitive car this year. He believes that Verstappen would have also viewed the regs differently if he comes at the top again.
“I’m sure both are trying to stir things up … Hamilton is in a significantly better position this year and has a competitive car – that’s why he’s satisfied, if Verstappen is back at the front, he’ll probably assess the rules differently,” he added in conversation with BILD.
