Max Verstappen considers himself two tenths faster than Lewis Hamilton
As he was leading the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Max Verstappen saw victory slip away from him a few laps before the end. The Dutchman still holds onto the championship lead thanks to a mistake by Hamilton, and takes a dig at him.
This weekend, Max Verstappen was a step ahead. At the wheel of a Red Bull, very comfortable on urban circuits, the Dutchman had the opportunity to increase his lead in the championship. However, his tires decided otherwise. Indeed, a few laps before the end, the Dutchman’s left rear tire gave up and he had to retire. A disappointment for the driver #33 who had a chance to win this weekend.
On city circuits, we seem to have the upper hand over Mercedes, which is precisely why I would have liked to score more points today,” he admitted to Motorsport.com.
Nevertheless, the leader of the world championship saw his bitterness ease slightly when he saw his direct competitor miss his restart by going straight at turn 1. Max Verstappen also admitted that he would have liked to win this race because he expects a very competitive Mercedes on more traditional circuits.
« Our car was very good, but to be honest, I expect a very strong Mercedes on normal tracks. Of course, it makes a difference, but I would have preferred to go further, of course. I feel bad about the missed opportunity, because throughout the season, we need these points. »
In an interview, Lewis Hamilton stated that Max is leading the world championship for the simple and good reason that he has the best car on the grid. Following this statement, the Dutchman allowed himself to retort and tackle the seven-time world champion.
« I would say that too if I were him. I think that if I am in his car, I am always two tenths faster than him. I don’t care what he says », he replied. The verbal jousts are certainly just beginning as the battle for the title is well and truly underway between the two men.
