The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ended in chaos for Max Verstappen after a controversial first-lap collision with Oscar Piastri. Starting from P4, the four-time world champion made an overly ambitious move on Piastri’s McLaren at Turn 1, resulting in a collision that forced both drivers off track. The incident earned Verstappen a 10-second penalty, leaving the Red Bull driver fuming.

After serving his penalty in the pits, Verstappen vented his frustrations over team radio, sarcastically remarking, “Can we ask for 20 seconds? Stupid idiots.” His fiery comments drew sharp criticism, notably from Sky Sports F1 commentator Martin Brundle.

“You can’t say that about referees. It’s unfair. They’re just applying the rules,” said Brundle, a former F1 driver himself. “If you don’t run into others, you won’t get penalties.” Brundle, joined by co-commentator David Croft, called Verstappen’s move on Piastri reckless and unnecessary, especially considering Red Bull had no stakes left in either championship.

The clash also proved costly for McLaren. While Verstappen had already secured the drivers’ championship in Las Vegas, McLaren remains locked in a tense battle with Ferrari for the Constructors’ title. Piastri’s crash placed the Woking-based team in a vulnerable position, forcing them to rely heavily on Lando Norris to keep their title hopes alive.After the collision, Piastri rejoined the race in last place but later collided with Williams driver Franco Colapinto, earning a penalty of his own. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc capitalized on the chaos, climbing from P19 to a strong P3 position.

With Piastri effectively out of contention for points, McLaren’s hopes rest solely on Norris. Leading the race, Norris is poised to deliver McLaren their first Constructors’ championship since 1998, provided he holds his position to the checkered flag.

As the dust settles, Verstappen’s outburst and McLaren’s dramatic title fight have become the talk of the paddock, ensuring this season finale will not soon be forgotten.