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Former F1 driver Martin Brundle says Max Verstappen has been “playing the game” due to his points advantage, and adds he is saddened that “he’s resorting to such tactics”.
In his Sky Sports F1 column Martin Brundle gave his comments on many questionable manoeuvers that Max Verstappen has been doing against Lewis Hamilton at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
“Formula One has a problem in that the design of the racetracks, particularly with regard to the ‘safety’ run off areas, and the Sporting Regulations, simply can’t contain the way that Max Verstappen is choosing to go racing at the moment,” Brundle wrote.
“He’s been playing the game given that, with his points advantage, Lewis Hamilton simply can’t afford to have an accident with him and lose an opportunity to reduce the points deficit.
“Even now, despite being absolutely level on points going into the final round for the first time in F1 since 1974, that remains the case given that he has a 9-8 race victory tally should there be a count-back.
“Such is Max’s car control and cunning he’s sometimes able to pull off the audacious moves and leave a margin of doubt as to whether it’s hard racing or simply a professional foul outside of the regulations.
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“And it’s those moments, such as the infamous turn four in Brazil, which are generating the confusion, controversies and inconsistencies.”
The Briton adds it would be a shame if Verstappen’s immense talent and skill would become overshadowed by his questionable “tactics” on the track.
“I’m in awe of Verstappen’s driving skills and racing nous, and have championed him since the Chinese Grand Prix of 2015 when he was in the Toro Rosso.
“His touch and control behind the wheel is something to behold, but it saddens me that he’s resorting to such tactics, he’s better than that.
“And for all his carefree attitude it will be such a shame if his legacy is to be labelled as an unfair driver.
“Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher had their faults too, and I was on the receiving end from both of them on occasions.
“But it’s a sizeable dent on their immense reputations, not a positive,” concluded Brundle.
