Former F1 driver and world champion Damon Hill has sharply criticized Max Verstappen for his driving behavior during the Grand Prix of Mexico. According to Hill, Verstappen is incapable of racing fairly. He compares Verstappen’s tactics to those of the famous cartoon character Dick Dastardly from Wacky Races.
‘You’re Not Getting Past’
After the incident, Norris called Verstappen’s driving ‘dangerous’ and Zak Brown deemed his defensive tactics ‘ridiculous’ with the message ‘enough is enough.’ Hill agrees and explains why he believes Verstappen’s actions do not fit within the boundaries of fair competition. “Coming out of turn 4, Max clearly made a move towards the edge of the track to give Lando no chance. He did not try to hold back or leave space when taking the turn.” According to the former F1 driver, it was a simple ‘you’re not getting past.’
Hill is particularly critical of the second incident between Verstappen and Norris. “He drove Lando off the track, and that was just stupid. Max has so much talent and fighting spirit, but I don’t think he will be proud of this action.”
‘Fair Racing Does Not Fit His Philosophy’
According to Hill, Verstappen lacks the mentality to race fairly. “It is possible to race fairly, but that does not seem to fit his philosophy. His attitude is simply that no one should pass him. Sport should show character, but Max keeps resorting to preventive methods instead of sportsmanship.”
Hill’s harsh criticism comes at a time when the battle between Verstappen and Norris is intensifying. Norris has reduced the gap to Verstappen to 47 points. With 120 points still up for grabs in the last four races, the battle will erupt. According to Hill, Verstappen should focus on competitive and fair racing instead of using his car as a weapon to block the track.
