Trouble between Verstappen and Russell after the Qatar penalty

Max Verstappen and George Russell will no longer be friends. The Dutch Formula 1 world champion from Red Bull clearly criticized the behavior of the British Mercedes driver after his victory at the Qatar Grand Prix. The trigger was Russell’s demand for a penalty because he felt that Verstappen was hindering him in qualifying. “It is very disappointing,” emphasized Verstappen: “I have lost all respect.”

Neither had set a fast lap at the Lusail International Circuit. Verstappen was denied pole position by the race stewards; instead, Russell started the penultimate race of the season from first place.

He had never seen “someone try to screw someone over so much,” said Verstappen. It was ridiculous how Russell tried to impose a penalty on him. “I couldn’t believe I got it. But in a way I was no longer surprised in the world I live in,” said Verstappen.

Once in a rage, the 27-year-old Qatar winner, who is known for clear statements, continued to fight. “He’s always very polite in front of the cameras, but when you sit with him directly, he’s a completely different person. I can’t stand that.” He no longer wants to have anything to do with Russell, whom he had already overtaken after a few meters in the race. There will be a reunion at the last Grand Prix of the year next Thursday in the paddock in Abu Dhabi.