In the wake of a contentious penalty during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen has opted to keep his frustrations under wraps, citing fears of repercussions from Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA.

The reigning four-time champion received a five-second penalty for leaving the track while battling McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, which may have cost him a crucial race victory.

Verstappen expressed his discontent, stating, "You can’t share your opinion because it’s not appreciated apparently, or people can’t handle the full truth. Honestly, it’s better if I don’t say too much." He further elaborated on the hypersensitivity surrounding criticism in the sport, adding, "It’s honestly just how everything is becoming. Everyone is super-sensitive about everything."

These comments highlight a recent change in the FIA's regulations, which now impose strict penalties for drivers who criticize the organization or use offensive language.

Under these new rules—instated by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem—drivers could face a one-month ban and a deduction of championship points for inappropriate remarks. Verstappen himself faced backlash last year for a slip of the tongue during a press conference.

The regulations stem from multiple incidents where drivers' outbursts led to sanctions, including Piastri, who was able to navigate the treacherous first corner with skill while staying within the track limits.

In Jeddah, Verstappen noted the shifting landscape of driver communication: "It has to do with social media in general, and how the world is. I prefer not to talk a lot because sometimes your words can be twisted or people interpret it in a different way."

His radio messages during the race clearly demonstrated his displeasure with the penalty. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner echoed Verstappen's sentiments, labeling the penalty as "very harsh" and questioning the FIA's shift away from allowing drivers to race freely.

The stewards defended their decision, stating that the standard penalty for gaining an advantage off-track is typically 10 seconds but was reduced to five given it was the first lap.

Piastri, who went on to secure the win, confidently commented on the situation: "I knew that I had enough of my car alongside to take the corner. We both braked extremely late, and I think how it unfolded is how it should have been dealt with."

Despite the drama, Piastri showcased his skill, maneuvering through the race under considerable pressure, solidifying his place as a rising star in Formula 1.

Meanwhile, fellow McLaren driver Lando Norris faced his challenges, acknowledging the need to improve his Saturday performances to bolster his race day results, following a recent crash in qualifying.

As the season progresses, Verstappen will need to tread carefully with his words while continuing to push for that elusive win, with the motorsport world eagerly watching how these new rules will shape future races.