The Azerbaijan GP sprint race had it all. Since the victory of Checo Pérez, going through the initial incident between Max Verstappen and George Russellthere are divided opinions regarding this format and the modifications that Formula 1 made for the 2023 season.
But if there was a couple that gave something to talk about, it was precisely Verstappen and Russell. The damage to Max’s car wasn’t so small. For this reason, the current two-time champion claimed with all the fact that the FIA did not penalize the Mercedes driver.
“I don’t understand how he can maintain position and have damaged my car. It’s ridiculous“Verstappen said on the radio. At the end of the session, he contemplated the damage to his car and had a conversation with Russell… Although we don’t know exactly what they said.
What we did hear were his words in the post-sprint race interviews and everything was said there. Max Verstappen pointed directly to the British for what he considers justifications and assured that at least he did not risk it, precisely to avoid an incident.
“He is very good at explaining and making excuses.. We all had cold tires and I think he had every right to be out there and I didn’t even risk too much. I gave him space because I knew we were going wheel to wheel. You need two to keep the curve clean and he didn’t“, declared the Dutchman.
Russell did not save anything either and responded to Verstappen
George Russell was not far behind and responded directly to Verstappen. Of course, everything happened before the press and their questions on the subject, although the former Williams driver presented his arguments and even said he was surprised by Max’s anger and claims.
“As a pilot you know the risks. I am here to fight and to win, I am not going to hold back just because he is leading the championship. I was surprised because I had the inside line and was looking to get out, it’s the risk you take. From my point of view, that was my curve and I didn’t have to let go. None of the contacts were intentional.
“I tried my best to have a fair fight, but like I said, I was surprised that he resisted. I was surprised that he was so angry. He has enough experience to know that if you are trying to pass on the outside, there is a risk of getting hit on the inside. Nothing would have been different if the positions had been reversed“Russell pointed out a little (much) calmer than Verstappen.
