F1 fans spotted genius 'tactic' Max Verstappen used to prevent disqualification after Chinese Grand Prix

Formula 1 fans have been reacting on social media after spotting what Max Verstappen did on the back of the Chinese Grand Prix.

On Sunday, the second race of the 2025 season took place around the Shanghai International Circuit.

Similar to the season opener in Australia, McLaren dominated as Oscar Piastri won ahead of teammate Lando Norris and Mercedes star George Russell.

After the race, news emerged that Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc and Alpine's Pierre Gasly were disqualified for having an underweight car.

Meanwhile, the other Ferrari driver, Lewis Hamilton, was also disqualified due to excessive skid wear.

F1 fans have since spotted what reigning world champion Verstappen did during the aftermath of the Chinese Grand Prix.

The Dutchman was seen driving onto the grass when he entered the pit lane, which quickly led to a fan theory.

F1 fans have new theory after seeing what Max Verstappen did during aftermath of Chinese GP

One fan said: "Max Verstappen deliberately driving over mud or grass after the Chinese Grand Prix probably to add extra weight."

Another tweeted: "It's smart by Max to do this."

A third fan added: "Smart move, I respect it."

Someone else wrote: "They all do it. Most try to collect as much garbage off the racing line on the cooling laps."

A fifth commented: "I don’t like him, but this is very smart. No different than picking up rubber. Good on him. Hate the game not the player."

Another fan said: "Verstappen hitting the grass with his wheel to increase the weight of the car, damn that's brilliant."

Verstappen came home in fourth place, more than 16 seconds behind winner Piastri.

Speaking after the Grand Prix, the 27-year-old said: "I think we’ll take that as a positive, that there is pace in the car at some point.

"We just need to understand a bit more why it didn’t happen at the beginning and why at the end of the race it was a bit better."

F1 will return next weekend with the Japanese Grand Prix, which will be held around the Suzuka Circuit.

Where to buy tickets for the F1 Grand Prix 2025 from as little as £21

For petrolheads wanting to enjoy the action in person for the remainder of the season, there are a few places where you can still snap up tickets.

• Seat Unique offers a range of hospitality packages for those wanting the VIP treatment, but there are also premium tickets for as little as £49.
• Motorsport Tickets has some great-value deals with locations including Miami, Bahrain and Monaco but it’s Saudi Arabia that boasts the cheapest tickets starting at £21.