Three-time Formula One world champion Max Verstappen has firmly defended his off-track hobbies, specifically his sim racing until late night hours before the Hungarian Grand Prix. This comes amidst scrutiny from the racing world, including criticisms from former world champion Nico Rosberg who brought into question Verstappen’s commitment after he placed fifth in Budapest. Rosberg’s criticism heightened concerns as it was followed by remarks from Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, suggesting Verstappen had agreed to limit his sim racing after finishing without a win in three consecutive races.
However, Verstappen clarified his stance, vehemently denying any imposed restrictions.
“We talked about it and I said you don’t need to worry,” Verstappen remarked. “It is not that I have had a ban. I don’t need to tell them what to do in their private time at the weekend and that is the same for me.”
The discussion around Verstappen’s habits broadened as he tackled the issue of his professionalism. Pointing to his three championship titles and numerous victories, Verstappen does not see a correlation between his extracurricular activities and his on-track outcomes.
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“These kinds of things come up when you don’t win a race. You can always argue what it was. Was it what you ate the night before or did you go to the toilet before the race or maybe your warm-up wasn’t right,” he elaborated.
The Red Bull driver’s rebuttal staunchly continued:
“I don’t believe in that. I’m a three-time world champion, I think I know quite well what I can do and can’t do.”
The discourse also touched upon his communications during races, particularly his language over the team radio, which had been another point of contention. Verstappen advised detractors bothered by his words to “turn the volume down.
“I’m very driven to succeed. I’ve proven that already and I always want to optimise (performance).”
He highlighted the necessity of frank communication within his team, stating:
“It is important that we can be critical. In this world, people cannot take criticism like it used to be and I don’t want to end up like that.”
Fellow racer Lewis Hamilton also chimed into the conversation, subtly critiquing Verstappen’s recent conduct by hinting that he needed to act like a world champion.
“You have to be a team leader, a team member,” the 7-time champion said. “Maybe not such a team leader, just always remember you are a team-mate with lots of people and you have to act like a world champion.”
Uncommon Knowledge
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
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