Max Verstappen has urged the FIA to pay for drivers’ expenses for mandatory off-track events, like the annual gala, highlighting fairness concerns for those from lower-tier racing series.
The reigning world champion raised this issue before the end-of-season gala in Rwanda, which follows the final race in Abu Dhabi.
Speaking during the United States Grand Prix weekend in Austin, Verstappen criticized the requirement for drivers to cover their own travel costs despite mandatory attendance.
He noted that while financial burdens aren’t a concern for him, they can significantly impact drivers from less profitable categories.
Verstappen believes it’s “unfair” to expect non-F1 drivers to pay for their travel to required events. Recently, he’s had tensions with the FIA over a penalty for swearing during a press conference.
He pointed out that the financial strain can be considerable for those in karting or junior series, referencing young driver Zak O’Sullivan’s withdrawal from F2 due to funding issues.
Verstappen emphasized that the FIA should reconsider how they manage these events financially, stating, “If they want to host it in Timbuktu,
I have no problem with that. But they should look into reimbursing the costs, especially when it’s a requirement to attend.”
