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Adrian Newey Opens Up on Max Verstappen’s 2021 Silverstone Crash and Its Aftermath

Simon Monroy by Simon Monroy
January 10, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Adrian Newey’s Next Big Challenge: Can the F1 Design Maestro Transform Aston Martin Into a Winning Force?

MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 25: Adrian Newey, the Chief Technical Officer of Oracle Red Bull Racing arrives in the Paddock prior to final practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2024 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202405250077 // Usage for editorial use only //

The 2021 Formula 1 season was a thrilling, high-stakes battle between a rising star and a seasoned champion. For Max Verstappen, his maiden title victory didn’t come without its dramatic and dangerous moments, none more striking than his harrowing crash at the British Grand Prix. Red Bull’s technical mastermind, Adrian Newey, recently shared chilling details about the impact of that crash and its effects on Verstappen.


The Silverstone Clash That Shook F1

The 2021 British Grand Prix remains one of the most controversial and talked-about races in modern F1 history. Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, locked in a fierce rivalry, started side by side on the front row. Their battle for supremacy culminated in contact at the high-speed Copse corner, sending Verstappen’s Red Bull hurtling into the barriers with an enormous 51G impact.

Fans around the world held their breath as Verstappen was slow to respond over the radio. According to Newey, those moments were agonizing for the Red Bull garage.

“I think Max’s crash at Silverstone was the last one where we genuinely feared for his safety. He was badly winded, grunting over the radio, and we didn’t know how serious it was,” Newey recalled.
“He had a nasty concussion and was very sore for a week after, but thankfully, he was okay.”


A Turning Point in the Championship

The incident not only left Verstappen physically sore but also reignited tensions between Red Bull and Mercedes. Hamilton went on to win the race, reducing Verstappen’s championship lead and intensifying the title fight. Despite this setback, Verstappen bounced back, showing resilience that would ultimately carry him to his first title on a dramatic final lap in Abu Dhabi.

Newey believes that Verstappen’s ability to recover from such a severe crash speaks volumes about his mental and physical toughness.


Safety and Aggression: F1’s Double-Edged Sword

While Verstappen’s aggressive driving style has earned him praise and success, it has also drawn criticism. The 2021 season, particularly his clashes with Hamilton, prompted the FIA to reevaluate racing rules. Former F1 driver and steward Emanuele Pirro commented on how the intense rivalry raised the stakes—and the risks.

“Hamilton and Verstappen elevated the competition in 2021, but they brought it to a more dangerous level,” Pirro said.
“The racing was incredible, but it made us, as stewards, rethink how we approach penalties and safety rules.”


Verstappen’s Unyielding Mindset

Even in 2024, Verstappen’s aggressive style remains a focal point of his racing philosophy. Despite occasional controversies, he has made it clear he has no intention of changing his approach. Heading into the 2025 season, Verstappen’s rivals will be acutely aware of his readiness to push the limits, both of his car and himself, to secure a fifth world title.

“I know my style is aggressive, but that’s who I am. It’s what has gotten me here,” Verstappen said recently.
“I’m not planning to change.”


Legacy of the 2021 Season

The 2021 season will forever be remembered for its thrilling, no-holds-barred competition between Verstappen and Hamilton. Verstappen’s Silverstone crash and his eventual triumph are defining chapters in his journey to becoming a four-time champion. As he aims for his fifth title, the echoes of 2021—its drama, danger, and determination—continue to shape his legacy.

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