Jos Verstappen sheds light on Max Verstappen’s refusal to obey team orders at 2022 Brazilian GP

Jos Verstappen gave a clear explanation over Max Verstappen's refusal to let Sergio Perez through at the Brazilian GP two years ago.


Jos Verstappen sheds light on Max Verstappen’s refusal to obey team orders at 2022 Brazilian GP

Max Verstappen and Jos Verstappen (Via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez shared a cordial relationship at Red Bull as teammates. Now, with the latter leaving the team, Verstappen’s father Jos Verstappen has recalled arguably the most controversial incident between the two drivers.

At the 2022 Brazilian GP, Checo had given his position to Verstappen in the ending stages of the race. However, the Dutch driver refused to hand back the place despite Red Bull demanding the same on team radio. This sparked tensions between the two drivers.

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Jos Verstappen claimed that his son had a conversation with Red Bull before that weekend. The two parties agreed that Max Verstappen will not be asked to give up position to Sergio Perez. The 52-year-old highlighted that despite this discussion, Milton Keynes still asked the Dutch driver to let Checo pass before the end of the race.

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That question came. Max had talked about it before the trip to Brazil and they weren’t going to ask, and suddenly that question came over the onboard radio anyway.

Jos Verstappen told Formule1.nl

Max Verstappen leaves ‘no room for doubt’ over team orders

Jos Verstappen pinpointed at Max Verstappen’s reply over the team order message. The Dutch driver reminded the pit wall about the agreement and instructed them not to make such a demand again. The 52-year-old emphasized on his son’s clear response, which left no room for doubt over the situation at Red Bull.

Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez (via IMAGO)
Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez (via IMAGO)

Max responded very clearly then too. He leaves no room for doubt, even in this area.

Jos Verstappen asserted

Since then, the dynamics within Red Bull have only grown stronger towards Verstappen. With Checo being replaced by Liam Lawson next season, the four-time world champion faces a new challenge. It remains to be seen how Lawson fares against arguably the best performing driver on the current grid.