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Max Verstappen Escapes Injury After On-Track Clash With Teammate
17 May 2026Racingnews365Breaking newsRace report

Max Verstappen Escapes Injury After On-Track Clash With Teammate

Max Verstappen had a close call during the Nürburgring 24 Hours when he made contact with his own teammate, but managed to continue without major damage. The incident highlights the risks of multi-class endurance racing and the Dutchman's relentless driving style.

Max Verstappen escaped unscathed after a brief but frightening moment of contact with his teammate during the Nürburgring 24 Hours. The incident occurred while Verstappen was pushing hard in the early hours of the race, with the two cars touching as they battled for position. Fortunately, neither car suffered significant damage, allowing Verstappen to continue his charge.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's ability to walk away from what could have been a costly mistake underscores his remarkable car control and luck. However, it also raises questions about intra-team discipline in a high-stakes endurance event. With the F1 season in full swing, any injury or car damage could have derailed his championship hopes.

The details:

  • The contact happened during a double-stint during the night, with Verstappen trying to pass a slower GT car while his teammate was on a different line.
  • Team radio reported a "touch of wheels" but both drivers immediately backed off, avoiding a spin or crash.
  • Verstappen later acknowledged the incident calmly, saying, "We were both trying to maximize the stint, but maybe it was a bit too close."
  • The team managed to continue without a pit stop, losing only a few seconds.

What's next:

Verstappen will resume his Nürburgring campaign, aiming for a podium finish. The F1 calendar next moves to Monaco, where his focus will shift entirely back to Red Bull. This incident serves as a reminder that even the best drivers can have moments of over-enthusiasm—and that endurance racing leaves no room for complacency.

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