Verstappen asked Red Bull if he could shunt rivals in 100-driver karting challenge

Max Verstappen asked Red Bull whether he was allowed to shunt his rivals during a 100-driver karting challenge filmed at a purpose-built track at Silverstone — and the team’s answer was a diplomatic, if firm, no.

The four-time Formula 1 champion revealed the exchange during a live stream. “I actually asked Red Bull because there’s like 100 guys [against me], ‘Am I allowed to shunt them or not?’ And they’re like, ‘No, ideally not,’” Verstappen said. The clip quickly circulated among fans, with one Reddit user summarising the team’s position as “frowned upon but not prohibited.”

The event, titled Max vs 100 and hosted by British comedian Mo Gilligan, placed Verstappen at the back of a 100-kart grid with the sole objective of overtaking every competitor before the leaders could pull clear. The field includes content creators, athletes, streamers and grassroots racers.

The bespoke circuit was designed by 1993 Formula A karting world champion David Terrien, who noted the scale of the undertaking. “Designing a track capable of hosting 100 drivers simultaneously has never been done, never been seen before,” Terrien said. “Max will need to rely heavily on his anticipation in heavy traffic, planning every move while maintaining a blistering pace to stop the leaders from pulling away.”

Verstappen, who spent much of his early career in karting before rising through single-seater ranks to reach Formula 1, spoke warmly about returning to the discipline. “Karting teaches you all the fundamentals: race starts, defending, and overtaking,” he said. “I spent a huge part of my life doing it, so it’s always a pleasure to come back. As soon as you feel the grip and the unique sensations of a kart, the instincts naturally kick back in.”

The event is set to be released on 16 September, with Verstappen able to communicate live on radio with his team while racing.