AZERBAIJAN: Max Verstappen’s calls to scrap the Sprint format F1 introduced recently did not sit well with former F1 World Champion Damon Hill. Hill expressed his disappointment with the reigning World Champion’s comments after the dramatic Sprint race on Saturday in Azerbaijan.
Verstappen finished in third place, but not before getting into a scrap with George Russell, that damaged his RB19.
Verstappen expressed his disdain for the Sprint format and called for a return to the traditional qualifying format. He claimed to have gotten bored with the format, which he found artificial and lacking excitement.
Hill, however, sarcastically responded by suggesting that the FIA should hand Verstappen the championship and that there would be no need for any other races. Hill also criticized Verstappen for his refusal to accept any portion of the blame for the contact with Russell.
He stated that Verstappen’s attitude was similar to that of previous champions, including Michael Schumacher and Ayrton Senna. Hill emphasized that taking the rough with the smooth is essential in any sport, and no one can always be in the right.
Verstappen’s comments and behaviour after the Sprint race did not go unnoticed, and Hill’s response generated a lot of buzz in the F1 community. Verstappen’s attitude towards the Sprint format has been a topic of discussion, with many F1 fans and experts disagreeing with his views.
The FIA introduced the Sprint format to create more excitement and engagement among fans by having a shorter race on Saturday to determine the starting grid for Sunday’s main race.
While some have praised the format, others, like Verstappen, have criticized it for being artificial. The incident between Verstappen and Russell was not the first time the Dutch driver had been involved in a collision this season.
Verstappen collided with Lewis Hamilton in the Monza race in 2021, resulting in both drivers retiring from the Grand Prix. Hill’s comments have sparked a debate on whether Verstappen needs to change his attitude towards racing and accept responsibility for his actions.
Some F1 fans and experts believe that Verstappen’s approach could hinder his chances of winning this season’s championship.
Also Read: Max Verstappen Criticises F1 Sprint Format Even after Alterations for Azerbaijan GP
