Hamilton claims Verstappen has kept driving dangerously since…read more
Lewis Hamilton believes that Max Verstappen’s driving style remains as aggressive and “dangerous” as it was during their intense 2021 world championship rivalry. The British driver first criticized Verstappen’s approach then, accusing him of driving as though the rules did not apply to him. Since then, Hamilton maintains he hasn’t seen much change in Verstappen’s style, a sentiment that has resurfaced due to recent clashes involving the Dutchman and McLaren driver Lando Norris. Verstappen, in response, has dismissed critics, calling them biased and dismissive.
Verstappen’s driving has been under scrutiny again after recent controversial incidents in Austin and Mexico. During the Austin Grand Prix, Verstappen forced Norris wide, resulting in Norris receiving a penalty, though some felt that Verstappen had entered the corner too aggressively. Then, in Mexico, Verstappen was penalized twice for pushing Norris off-track in separate incidents. These conflicts have reignited debate around his driving style, which has been a recurring topic as the Formula 1 season heads to São Paulo for the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Hamilton was repeatedly questioned about Verstappen’s tactics ahead of the São Paulo race, acknowledging that while he is not currently in direct competition with Verstappen, his opinion on the Dutchman’s approach hasn’t changed since 2021. “All you have to do is go back and listen to some of my radio comments back in the day,” Hamilton noted, adding that he doesn’t believe Verstappen’s style has evolved since their clashes three years ago.
Their 2021 championship fight was marked by several high-profile incidents, notably during the penultimate race in Jeddah when Hamilton accused Verstappen of “brake-testing” him, an act that caused a collision. Hamilton called it “dangerous driving” and stated that he had been forced to avoid contact with Verstappen numerous times. He argued that some drivers push the limits excessively, with rules seemingly taking a back seat in their minds. Verstappen, he claimed, was “over the limit, for sure.”
Former world champion Damon Hill has echoed Hamilton’s concerns, questioning if Verstappen even aims to race within the rules. Hill suggested that fair racing might not be part of Verstappen’s philosophy, doubting whether the Dutch driver has it in his “repertoire” to race within established boundaries.
Verstappen, however, has shrugged off these criticisms. He stated that he only listens to people he believes are objective and close to him, dismissing those he perceives as trying to create controversy. Verstappen responded pointedly, “Some people are being very annoying. I know who they are and I don’t pay attention to them anyway.” The Dutch driver defended his approach, asserting confidence in his driving decisions, and brushed off any biased opinions as irrelevant.
With four races remaining and a lead of 47 points over Norris, Verstappen could face a potential grid penalty in Brazil if Red Bull opts to install a new power unit, exceeding the permitted allowance. The Interlagos circuit’s suitability for overtaking could make this weekend an ideal time for such a strategic decision, potentially offering Norris a chance to close the points gap if Verstappen starts further back in the field.
As the season nears its end, the Verstappen-Hamilton rivalry continues to cast a shadow over the grid, reigniting discussions on what defines fair racing and the boundary between competitiveness and recklessness.
