Max Verstappen has begun to challenge George Russell’s role as a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) amid their ongoing public dispute. The pair engaged in media sessions in Abu Dhabi, exchanging barbs in a continuation of their conflict that started in Qatar. Verstappen accused Russell of aggressively advocating for a grid penalty […]
Max Verstappen has begun to challenge George Russell’s role as a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) amid their ongoing public dispute.
The pair engaged in media sessions in Abu Dhabi, exchanging barbs in a continuation of their conflict that started in Qatar.
Verstappen accused Russell of aggressively advocating for a grid penalty to be imposed on the Red Bull driver over an incident that occurred during qualifying. Consequently, Verstappen asserted that he has lost all respect for Russell.
During the Abu Dhabi sessions, Russell criticized Verstappen, referring to the Dutchman as a bully.
He also mentioned the 2021 championship battle he faced against current teammate Lewis Hamilton and implied that former F1 race director Michael Masi might have feared for his safety had the contentious conclusion of the season not favored Verstappen.
In addition to his responsibilities with Mercedes, Russell represents the F1 drivers at the GPDA, addressing their concerns.
Commenting on Russell’s position within the GPDA, Verstappen emphasized the negative impression created by the 26-year-old’s remarks.
“Well, it’s fairly disappointing to witness that,” Verstappen told select media including RacingNews365 regarding Russell’s latest comments.
“I don’t believe that serves as the best example for either the FOM or the FIA to observe.”
Horner supports Verstappen over stewards’ room remarks
This disagreement has also drawn in team principals Christian Horner and Toto Wolff, with Wolff referring to Horner as a “yapping little terrier” after Horner criticized Russell’s “hysterics” in Qatar.
Russell alleged that Verstappen stormed into the stewards’ room last Saturday swearing before Russell had an opportunity to respond.
Verstappen has denied this claim, a stance supported by Horner.
“In response to your inquiry, first and foremost, Max is simply stating the truth,” Horner remarked. “Thus, I am 100% certain that what he said is accurate.
“Naturally, there are others present in those stewards’ rooms as well. They reported back expressing surprise at the approach taken, so to speak.
“As for Toto’s additional comments, I won’t take the bait on that. Every team leader handles their teams differently.
“We have secured 122 race victories. We have claimed 14 world championships. I think we’re managing just fine.”
