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F1 fans deliver clear Verstappen verdict after unusual penalty

Max Verstappen did not start from pole position in Qatar, following an bizarre penalty.

Formula 1 fans have delivered a clear verdict on Max Verstappen's one-place grid penalty in the Qatar Grand Prix.  Verstappen received a one-place grid drop after being judged as having been driving unnecessarily slowly on his final preparation lap in Q3.  In doing so, a collision with George Russell also took place; however, it was unusual circumstances as the Mercedes driver was also on a preparation lap. F1 fans clearly disagree with the FIA, with 71.5% believing that the 27-year-old's penalty was unfair.  Whilst the penalty resulted in Verstappen starting from second instead of first, he still comfortably won the race. Interestingly, 21.7% of voters believe the Dutchman's punishment was fair, whilst 6.8% are unsure of whether it was right or wrong. Check out the full poll results below!

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RESULTS 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 5