Ex-Red Bull junior SLAMS media for portraying Max Verstappen as a ‘villain’ amidst George Russell saga

Max Verstappen has been the subject of mass criticism by the media ever since his early years in Formula 1.


Ex-Red Bull junior SLAMS media for portraying Max Verstappen as a ‘villain’ amidst George Russell saga

George Russell and Max Verstappen (via Red Bull)

Former Red Bull junior driver Dan Ticktum has taken Max Verstappen‘s side in his ongoing feud with Mercedes’ George Russell. The two drivers have been involved in a battle of words ever since the Qatar Grand Prix.

George Russell complained of Max Verstappen‘s attempt to botch his final push lap during qualifying of the Qatar GP. The Brit claimed that the Dutchman was deliberately going slow, which deterred his lap. However, Verstappen has stood strong and accused Russell of making false allegations.

YouTube video

Dan Ticktum has thereafter claimed that the media has always tried to portray Verstappen as a villain without proper reasons. He, moreover, reasons that the Dutchman is one of the best drivers in the world.

FS Video

I haven’t seen all the details, but as I said before this on-record conversation, I’m always Team Max, no matter what. I met him a few times when I worked for Red Bull, of course. He is constantly portrayed by the media as the villain. I suffer a bit of the same fate, albeit on a smaller scale. But, I don’t know, I feel like George is usually very calculating, he plays that game. I just like Max more than George. He (Verstappen, ed.) is the best in the world.

Dan Ticktum told Talksport

Verstappen heads into the final race of the 2024 season (Abu Dhabi GP) looking to secure his tenth win of the year. He will be wholly challenged by the likes of Russell and Mercedes, who have been in form lately.

Max Verstappen feels a ‘change of scenery’ is necessary for Lewis Hamilton

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is set to make a move to Ferrari in 2025 after spending over a decade with the team. Ahead of his final race for the Brackley-based outfit, Max Verstappen has shared his thoughts on Hamilton’s move.

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen (via Formula 1)
Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton (via Formula 1)

Verstappen feels that a change of scenery for Lewis Hamilton might do him the world of good. The 39-year-old has not been in good form ever since he missed out on the title to the Dutchman in 2021.

Maybe it’s good for him to have a little switch of scenery and new motivation because I don’t think he will ever lose it. It’s just how you use it. I think it’s still going to be a very competitive season. A lot can happen. For us as well, it’s very unknown how competitive we are going to be against each other right now, but that makes it also very exciting once the cars are ready.

Max Verstappen via Mirror Sport

Hamilton, despite his poor form, has managed to win two times and amass five podiums so far this season. His aim will now be to put forth a compelling performance at the Yas Marina Circuit before starting a new era in red overalls.