Max Verstappen is heading into the Canadian Grand Prix with a steely resolve, seemingly unfazed by the potential of a race ban looming over him. The Red Bull driver currently sits precariously on 11 penalty points, just one shy of the threshold that would trigger an automatic suspension. These points accumulated over a rolling 12-month period, with the most recent addition stemming from a controversial collision with Mercedes rival George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix.

Despite the risk, the four-time world champion insists he will not alter his aggressive driving style. When questioned about the possibility of racing differently to avoid further penalties, Verstappen responded defiantly, questioning why he should change his approach. He asserted that he couldn't simply back out of every situation and would continue to race as he always has, trusting in his own judgment.

Verstappen acknowledged the incident with Russell in Spain, admitting it "was not right and shouldn't have happened". He explained that he had wanted to share his views on how the race unfolded and had cleared the air with Russell after encountering him at the airport.

When asked if he deserved to be on the brink of a ban, Verstappen shrugged it off, questioning what is considered fair. He stated that he doesn't worry about it, and will come to race hard. He will always race how he thinks he should race, and then move on to the next race.

The penalty point system, introduced in 2014, aims to deter dangerous driving. Only one driver, Kevin Magnussen, has been suspended for reaching the 12-point limit, missing the 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. In 2012, Romain Grosjean was suspended for causing a multi-car pile-up at the start of the Belgian GP, marking the first such ban since Michael Schumacher in 1994. Verstappen seems unconcerned about potentially joining this list.

Mercedes driver George Russell weighed in on the situation, stating that a race ban for Verstappen would be justified if he reached the 12-point threshold. Russell emphasized that the penalty points system exists for a reason: to punish reckless driving. He added that it's in Verstappen's hands to avoid a ban, but he also acknowledged that Verstappen's approach carries inherent risks.

Verstappen's current tally of 11 penalty points will remain a concern until after the Austrian Grand Prix at the end of June, when two points will be removed from his record. Until then, he will need to navigate the Canadian Grand Prix and the subsequent race with caution, balancing his trademark aggressive style with the need to avoid further penalties.

Despite the potential consequences, Verstappen appears resolute in his approach, determined to race hard and compete for a strong result in Montreal. He recognized that the situation in Canada might be different compared to his win in 2024. He acknowledged that McLaren has shown strong performance this season. He stated that fighting for a podium with Ferrari and Mercedes would already be a good result for Red Bull.