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Max Verstappen Denies Threatening George Russell – ‘He’s making things up’

Carl Harrison by Carl Harrison
January 9, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
0
Max Verstappen Denies Threatening George Russell – ‘He’s making things up’

Formula One F1 - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - December 5, 2024 Red Bull's Max Verstappen ahead of the grand prix REUTERS/Hamad I Mohammed

The war of words between Max Verstappen and George Russell has intensified at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with Verstappen strongly denying Russell’s claim that he had threatened to “put [him] on [his] f***ing head in the wall” after their controversial Qatar GP stewards’ hearing.


The Qatar GP Controversy

The drama originated during the Qatar Grand Prix, where Verstappen received a one-place grid penalty for impeding Russell during Q3 preparation laps. Russell alleged Verstappen aggressively pursued the penalty outcome in the stewards’ meeting, leading to Verstappen’s now infamous post-race comment that he had “lost all respect” for the Mercedes driver.

Speaking to the media at the season finale, Russell escalated the feud, claiming Verstappen’s conduct was not only confrontational but included the threat of deliberate on-track retaliation.


Verstappen Responds: “He’s Making Things Up”

In a later Dutch media session, Verstappen categorically denied Russell’s version of events.

“That’s already not right,” Verstappen interrupted when asked about Russell’s claim. “He’s making things up—things that aren’t true. I was very relaxed in the stewards’ meeting.”

Verstappen contended that Russell exaggerated the situation and misrepresented their interaction.

“He tries to dramatize it,” Verstappen added. “I think it says more about him than about me.”


No Regrets from Verstappen

When asked if he regretted his comments in Qatar, Verstappen doubled down, saying he would “stand by everything” he said and might even have been firmer in his initial remarks.

“How I am at home, at the stewards, I’m always the same. You can’t say that about everyone,” Verstappen noted, taking a subtle swipe at Russell’s behavior.


Tensions on the Qatar Drivers’ Parade

Verstappen revealed the following day’s drivers’ parade added fuel to the fire. He criticized Russell for acting as though their confrontation never happened.

“What I also can’t stand is how he attacked me in front of the stewards, and then the next day comes strolling in happily as if nothing is wrong,” Verstappen said. “I think, just go away for a bit.”


Russell: “Not Losing Sleep Over It”

Russell has remained steadfast, insisting he wouldn’t back down or let the situation affect him.

“I’m not changing my mindset and not losing any sleep over it whatsoever,” Russell said in his media session.

Both drivers have firmly stated they will not seek to mend their relationship, with Verstappen declaring:

“We don’t need to be best friends. If someone treats you like that in front of the stewards, then I’m done with it.”


The Fallout in Abu Dhabi

The feud between Verstappen and Russell is dominating headlines heading into the Abu Dhabi GP, adding a layer of tension to an already dramatic season finale. While Verstappen has already secured the drivers’ championship, his rivalry with Russell has reignited a broader debate about respect, competitiveness, and the fiery nature of modern Formula 1 rivalries.

The final race promises not just a battle on the track but a continuation of the simmering hostilities between two of the sport’s biggest personalities. Fans will be eager to see if the rivalry spills over into on-track action—or if cooler heads prevail.

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