Why Red Bull were fined €50,000 after Verstappen’s US Grand Prix win

Red Bull Racing has been fined €50,000 (approx. ₹51.2 lakh)—with half the amount suspended—after a grid rules breach prior to Sunday’s United States Formula One Grand Prix.

According to the race stewards, a member of the Red Bull team entered the gate well area near McLaren driver Lando Norris’ grid spot after the formation lap had begun and marshals were in the process of closing the gate.

Although the reason for the employee’s presence was not officially explained, several team sources told Reuters that McLaren had placed a small marker on the grid to help Norris accurately position his car. The Red Bull crew member reportedly attempted to remove that marker before the start.

Norris, who had qualified in second place, went on to finish the race as runner-up, while Max Verstappen began from pole position and claimed another victory for Red Bull.

Neither Red Bull nor McLaren issued an immediate statement following the stewards’ decision. Red Bull’s principal Laurent Mekies addressed reporters earlier but refrained from commenting until the verdict was made official.