Max Verstappen Responds to Criticism Over Aggressive Overtaking: ‘I Wouldn’t Complain Like That’
Max Verstappen has once again found himself in the spotlight for his aggressive racing tactics, especially after a series of high-profile clashes with Lewis Hamilton in 2021. While those criticisms faded over the next two years as Verstappen dominated the championship with minimal competition, the 2024 season has brought a fresh challenge. Lando Norris has emerged as a serious contender, and Verstappen’s racing style has shifted back to its combative roots.
As Norris closed the points gap, Verstappen became more defensive on the track, leading to some controversial moments where he pushed the limits of the rules. The FIA, closely monitoring these instances, has now decided to review the current driving regulations. While Verstappen is not entirely opposed to the changes, he has strongly criticized rivals who, in his view, have made too much noise over the issue. The reigning champion also made it clear that if he were in their position, he would not be as vocal.
When asked by BBC if he felt targeted by the proposed changes to the rules, Verstappen replied, “Honestly, even if they did, I don’t care because I drive to what I think is possible and what is allowed in the rules. And if the rules are written like that, I will use the rules.”
He further added, “If that happened to me the other way around, I don’t think I would be the person to complain so hard. I’d just think, ‘OK, if that’s the rules, that’s how we do it,’ instead of screaming that we need to change the rules.”
The controversy began at the 2024 US Grand Prix when Verstappen and Norris fought fiercely for P3. After a few failed attempts, Norris saw another chance to overtake on the outside of Turn 12. However, Verstappen ran both himself and Norris wide off the track, with the McLaren driver receiving a five-second time penalty despite finishing in P3. Verstappen, however, was not penalized due to his position at the apex, where he remained ahead of Norris.
This situation sparked further debate about the rules, which came to the forefront once again in the next race in Mexico. There, Norris managed to place himself ahead at the apex during another overtaking attempt, and Verstappen was handed a penalty when both drivers ran wide.
As the FIA revisits the driving regulations, Verstappen remains steadfast in his belief that he is simply following the rules as written, without backing down from his aggressive racing style. He remains determined to continue using whatever the regulations allow to stay at the top of the sport.
