Max Verstappen's hopes of victory in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix ended on the opening lap after receiving a five-second time penalty. The reigning world champion was penalised for leaving the circuit and gaining an advantage at the opening two corners, whilst battling McLaren's Oscar Piastri. Both drivers made a good start, but it was Piastri on the inside who made a better launch from second on the grid. Verstappen went off on the outside of the first corner and cut the second turn, before rejoining the circuit in the lead. He insisted that Piastri had forced him off the circuit; however, it was quickly deemed by the stewards that it was a punishable offence. The incident cost Verstappen victory, as he dropped behind Piastri and into second after serving his penalty during his pit-stop. Did Verstappen deserve the penalty? Have your say by voting in the poll below!
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