Max Verstappen admitted that the British Media are deliberately against…read more
Max Verstappen has openly admitted that the British media often seems biased against him, agreeing with comments made by Red Bull Racing’s Chief Designer, Adrian Newey. Newey had previously criticized the British press for their treatment of Verstappen, feeling they were unfairly critical of the Dutch driver. This criticism has followed Verstappen for years, as British journalists and pundits often appear to target him with negative commentary.
Guenther Steiner, former team boss of Haas F1, has a different take on the issue. In an exclusive interview with GPblog, Steiner shared his thoughts on the matter, suggesting that the media’s criticism of Verstappen isn’t necessarily personal. Instead, Steiner believes it’s simply a case of Verstappen attracting controversy because of his immense success in Formula 1.
“Max obviously stirs controversy because he’s won so much. That’s the main thing,” said Steiner, explaining that it’s natural for the media to focus on such a dominant figure in the sport. “In the end, we are all nationals. We love our own people, so I think the British press, with quite a few English drivers, prefers when Lewis [Hamilton], George [Russell], or Lando [Norris] win rather than Max.”
According to Steiner, it’s more a case of national pride influencing the media rather than outright disdain for Verstappen. He suggested that British journalists are naturally inclined to support their homegrown talents, such as Hamilton, Russell, and Norris, and that Verstappen’s dominance makes him an easy target for criticism.
Steiner further emphasized that the media’s behavior towards Verstappen doesn’t indicate a personal vendetta. He likened it to a form of “fanboy” behavior, particularly from the English press, who might prefer seeing British drivers succeed. “It’s not like they are against Max,” Steiner stated. “Max is a champion, and when you’re a champion, you’re critiqued. But I don’t think Max gives a s**t about it.”
Steiner laughed as he explained Verstappen’s apparent indifference to the negative press. “He shrugs his shoulders,” Steiner said, adding that Verstappen doesn’t seem fazed by the criticism. Steiner respects Verstappen’s ability to rise
