Verstappen Explains Why He Didn't Pick Up the Drivers' Dinner Bill

Max Verstappen has clarified that he didn't dodge the bill at the annual Abu Dhabi drivers' dinner; he was simply outmaneuvered by Pierre Gasly. The Red Bull driver explained he was fully prepared to pay for the group's meal but was sitting too far from the exit to stop the Alpine driver from settling up first.

Why it matters:

In a sport defined by intense rivalries and millisecond margins, this light-hearted story offers a rare glimpse into the camaraderie off the track. The annual dinner, organized by Lewis Hamilton, highlights the mutual respect among the 20 drivers, reminding fans that beyond the helmets, they are a unique group of friends and competitors.

The details:

• The dinner is a season-ending tradition organized by seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton. Last year's bill was famously paid by Valtteri Bottas.
• Verstappen said other drivers were joking that it was his turn to pay, and he was willing to do so, telling them, "Yeah, sure."
• The world champion was sitting on the opposite side of the private room from the entrance. By the time people started leaving, he realized Gasly had already handled the payment.
• The Mix-up: Verstappen joked on the Red Bull 'Talking Bull' podcast that he was "drinking my gin and tonics on the other side" when the bill was settled.
• He insisted he is normally generous and vowed to pay next year, saying, "I just didn't get to pay yet, but I'm sure that we have another dinner next year."

What's next:

While the bill for this year is settled, the friendly tradition will continue. All eyes will be on Verstappen at the 2025 season finale to see if he can finally fulfill his promise and treat his fellow drivers to dinner, or if another quick-thinking competitor will beat him to it again.