Red Bull’s Max Verstappen undergoes X-rays after dramatic Australian GP qualifying crash. Max Verstappen underwent X-rays after a high-speed crash in Australian GP qualifying.

Max Verstappen walked away unscathed from a violent crash during qualifying for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver, however, underwent precautionary medical checks, including X-rays of his hands, to rule out any injuries from the impact.

High-speed spin into barriers

The incident occurred during Verstappen’s first flying lap. As he braked for Turn 1, the rear wheels of the RB22 suddenly locked, causing a high-speed spin that sent the car violently into the barriers.

Medical checks and reassurance

Although Verstappen exited the car seemingly unharmed, the medical team at the track opted for further examinations. The circuit’s medical center is operated by specialists from the nearby Albert Hospital, just a few hundred meters from the track.

Speaking to the media after the session, the four-time world champion reassured everyone about his condition. “Yes, everything is fine. I just had to have some X-rays to check my hands, but nothing is broken,” Verstappen said.

Verstappen on the cause of the crash

The Red Bull driver admitted he hasn’t yet had a chance to review the incident with the team to understand exactly what happened. “I just pressed the brake pedal, and the entire rear axle completely locked. With these Formula 1 cars, that’s very unusual,” the Dutchman explained.

He admitted the crash surprised him. “It has never happened to me in my life,” Verstappen added, still incredulous at the incident’s dynamics.

When asked whether the car’s behavior could be linked to characteristics of the new-generation cars, Verstappen refrained from commenting. “I don’t know. There are many things we need to analyze in the sport in general. What can I say?” he replied, avoiding further controversy.

Starting from the back of the grid

As a result of the crash that ended his qualifying session, Verstappen will start from the back of the grid for the Australian GP. He will line up in twentieth position, while Carlos Sainz and Lance Stroll, who also missed qualifying, will share the final row. The Red Bull driver faces a challenging race at Albert Park, with a full charge through the field ahead.