Max Verstappen has stated he will not alter his direct communication style with his Red Bull team despite the criticism following his heated radio exchanges during the Hungarian Grand Prix.
A candid discussion occurred between Verstappen and his race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, during which Verstappen expressed frustration with the team’s strategy. At one point, he said, “No mate, don’t give me that bulls*** now. You guys gave me this fing strategy, okay? I’m trying to rescue what’s left. F sake.”
The comments have ignited a debate on the appropriateness of his language, with Lewis Hamilton suggesting Verstappen should “act like a world champion” and remember his role as a teammate.
When questioned about whether he would temper his future communications, Verstappen was resolute in maintaining his straightforward approach. He stated, “People that don’t like my language don’t have to listen to it. Turn the volume down. I am very driven to success. I think I’ve proven that already.”
Verstappen emphasized the importance of expressing his views at the moment, even if they are critical. He believes this openness is essential for the team’s success, saying, “We are very open-minded, we are very critical to each other as a team and that’s been working for us very well, so I don’t expect that to change.”
Looking ahead, Verstappen is keen to move past the frustrations of the Hungarian Grand Prix. Where he finished fifth after a clash with Hamilton and blamed the team’s strategy. He acknowledged, “It was quite clear that the strategy was wrong… I think it’s quite normal that you can share your frustration with it.”
Verstappen explained that after races, the team discusses and learns from mistakes, aiming for perfection in future events. “You voice your frustration… after the meeting, it’s quite clear, you talk about that what we did was not optimal… We learn from it and you just move on.”
This weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix presents a new challenge for Verstappen as he faces a 10-place grid drop due to an engine penalty. He has accepted that this weekend will be about minimizing damage, saying. “If you look at our last few races where we haven’t particularly been the fastest. I wouldn’t say that with 10 places extra we have a chance of winning.”
Despite the grid penalty and uncertainties, including new tarmac and expected rain, Verstappen remains focused on making the best of the situation. “A race can always be turned upside down within moments… Just get a progression throughout the weekend and see how competitive we are.”
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