Verstappen’s illness and absence from the FIA gala could briefly shift betting activity: punters may trim Lando Norris’s 2025 title odds and see spikes in prop markets tied to driver attendance or potential fines. Expect short-term volatility in attendance and next-season lines, but limited long-term impact on championship markets.
Verstappen to miss FIA trophy gala in Tashkent after falling ill
Max Verstappen will not attend the FIA end-of-season trophy presentation in Tashkent as he is unwell, Red Bull has confirmed. The world championship runner-up had been due to collect a trophy at Friday’s gala but will be absent for health reasons.
How the season concluded
Lando Norris clinched the drivers’ title at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, ending Verstappen’s run of four consecutive championships and finishing two points clear of the Red Bull driver. The podium positions set the expected attendance list for the FIA prize-giving.
Attendance rules and potential sanctions
FIA sporting regulations require the top three drivers in the championship to attend the gala. The governing body previously fined a driver €50,000 in 2021 for failing to attend after finishing runner-up at that year’s controversial Abu Dhabi race, which generated intense scrutiny over the Safety Car restart. The FIA has not yet confirmed whether Verstappen’s absence will attract any sanction.
McLaren to receive constructors' trophy amid full representation
McLaren will be represented at the gala by the driver who finished third in the standings, along with team leadership, as the outfit accepts the constructors’ championship trophy. Although the trophy recognizes a Formula 1 team achievement, the FIA administers the prize-giving for all its championships.
Betting implications and immediate market reaction
Verstappen’s no-show is likely to prompt short-term betting activity: markets on next-season title odds, driver attendance props and any fines could see increased volume and fluctuating prices. Long-term championship markets are unlikely to be significantly affected unless the illness has implications for preseason fitness or team preparations.
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Max Verstappen will miss the FIA's end-of-season trophy presentation due to illness, Red Bull has confirmed.
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