LUSAIL, Qatar โ Reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen expressed his disappointment on Sunday regarding his fellow competitor George Russell from Mercedes, declaring that he has โlost all respectโ for him following a qualifying incident that impacted his position for the Qatar Grand Prix.
During Saturdayโs qualifying session, Verstappen recorded a time that was just 0.055 seconds quicker than Russell. However, a decision made by the stewards resulted in a one-position penalty for Verstappen due to driving โunnecessarily slowlyโ in a situation that involved Russell, allowing the latter to secure the pole position on the grid.
Russell voiced his concerns over team radio, labeling Verstappenโs behavior as โsuper dangerousโ after having to navigate around him. Following the qualifying session, both drivers were called in for a hearing by the stewards. Verstappen was vocal in his critique of Russellโs handling of the situation.
โHonestly, very disappointing,โ Verstappen stated post-race. โI believe we all come to respect one another, and Iโve participated in enough stewardsโ meetings throughout my career alongside those who understand racing, but Iโve never encountered anyone who has tried that hard to undermine another.โ He further emphasized that his feelings towards Russell had significantly changed.
Verstappen maintained that his slower pace was a conscious decision to avoid hindering other racers. โI think this is the first instance where someone has received a penalty for being cautious during a slow lap. I attempted to be courteous, but perhaps my kindness is not appreciated,โ he remarked.
Despite the penaltyโs slight impact on the race, Verstappen managed to pass Russell right at the start and ultimately secured his ninth victory of the season. Russell acknowledged the challenge, โHis overtake was relatively straightforward, which was frustrating for our team. We recognize that Max is a fierce competitor, and I intended to match that intensity today.โ
Russell ended the race in fourth place, incurring a five-second penalty for falling too far behind the vehicle in front during a safety car period.