Max Verstappen branded ‘aggressive’ as Carlos Sainz slams Red Bull and Mercedes…read more
Max Verstappen, on the cusp of his fourth consecutive Drivers’ Championship title, faces mixed opinions as the F1 season nears its conclusion with the Las Vegas Grand Prix. After a commanding recovery drive in Brazil, where he won from 17th on the grid, Verstappen is expected to secure the title if he finishes ahead of Lando Norris this weekend.
Former F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve praised Verstappen’s dominance, stating that regardless of whether he clinches the title in Las Vegas or Abu Dhabi, he has been a deserving champion throughout an unpredictable season. Villeneuve also noted that Norris’s fight against Verstappen has added excitement to this year’s championship narrative.
Controversy arose when Carlos Sainz criticized F1’s penalties following a grid drop in Las Vegas due to damage from a track defect. Sainz called it “one of the most unfair penalties” after being penalized for repairs resulting from external factors. Verstappen, though benefiting from the penalty, supported Sainz, urging F1 to reconsider its regulatory framework to prevent such situations.
Meanwhile, Verstappen’s on-track aggressiveness has also drawn attention. During recent races, incidents with Norris and other drivers highlighted his uncompromising style, with some critics labeling it “dangerous.” McLaren boss Zak Brown called for fairer racing, while Verstappen defended his tactics as part of the competition. These debates underscore the high stakes and intense rivalries heading into the season’s final races.
As the F1 world looks ahead to Las Vegas, Verstappen remains the favorite to seal his championship, but the drama both on and off the track promises an intriguing climax to the 2024 season.
