Max Verstappen will skip the FIA Prize-Giving Gala in Uzbekistan after coming down with the flu.
The four-time Formula 1 World Champion was set to travel to Tashkent to collect his trophy for finishing second in 2025. However, sources indicate he is unwell and recovering.
Verstappen returned to the United Kingdom after winning the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a result that sealed the runner-up spot behind McLaren’s Lando Norris.
He visited Red Bull’s Milton Keynes factory earlier this week for a post-season debrief and a meet-and-greet with staff before illness halted his plans to continue to Uzbekistan.
It is reported that the Dutchman is suffering from the flu and has opted to rest rather than attend Friday night’s ceremony.
The FIA’s gala traditionally requires the top three drivers in the championship to appear, along with champions from other FIA series.
Non-attendance can trigger financial penalties. Lewis Hamilton was fined £42,000 for skipping the 2021 event following the controversial Abu Dhabi finale.
In Verstappen’s case, sources suggest the FIA may treat the situation as force majeure, which could exempt him from a fine.
The Red Bull driver has never hidden his frustration with the mandatory nature of the event.
Speaking to Viaplay last weekend, he said: “I have to go. Otherwise, I get a penalty. But honestly, it is nonsense.
“We are exhausted. It has been a very tough season. You want to recharge, not sit in a hall for hours. If it were optional, I would not be there.”
Before falling ill, Verstappen addressed Red Bull staff to celebrate the team’s recovery during a challenging campaign.
“Everyone is just as important to achieve this kind of success,” he said.
“Especially in a season like this, where we had tough times. We stuck together, and it worked.
“Yes, I know it sucks by only two points, but, at the same time, we can be super-proud to have come out of tough times, overcoming these things, and start winning again in one season.
“Maybe some teams can do that the season after, or two seasons, or 20! You know, some…
“It’s just super-impressive to see that, and for me, I’m very proud to be part of it. It’s honestly like my second family.”
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