When it comes to Max Verstappen, controversy is always around the corner. After a Mexican Grand Prix in a heated match, in which the three-time world champion was penalised for two aggressive manoeuvres on Lando Norris, it was his father Jos Verstappen who took to the field. And, as always, his words did not go unnoticed. The former Formula 1 driver defended his son's conduct without hesitation, maintaining that Max has the right to drive as he sees fit, accusing the FIA to deliberately hinder him because of old grudges.
Jos Verstappen's defence after Mexico: "Max must do everything to win"
Following the contact between Verstappen and Norris at Turn 4 and Turn 8, which resulted in a total of 20 second penalties, Jos Verstappen commented on the situation at The Telegraph, admitting that perhaps his son's second intervention was excessive but reiterating the need for an aggressive approach on the track. “Norris might now think even more: 'I have to be careful,'” said Jos. “If we look at the actions on Sunday, in the second episode Max may have been exaggerated. But we have to consider the circumstances: Max has to drive like this because the car is not good enough, and he is doing everything he can to win the title.”
Attack on stewards and accusations of conflict of interest
In addition to defending his son, Jos Verstappen has made heavy criticisms of the FIA, questioning the selection of race stewards. “The FIA should carefully examine the stewarding staff, and assess whether there is an appearance of a conflict of interest,” said the former driver. Alluding to the possibility that some stewards may have more sympathy for some drivers than others. The reference, albeit indirect, seems to be aimed at Johnny Herbert, one of the stewards in Mexico and a colleague of Jos in past years.
Max Verstappen between pressure and penalties
Despite the penalties, Max Verstappen continues to appear determined and unflappable. Convinced of his race strategy even in a championship in which Red Bull is forced to chase and limit the damage. For him, adapting to a car that is less competitive than in past years requires a direct and decisive approach on the track. A choice that, for now, he seems intent on maintaining.