Max Verstappen is leaving no room for diplomacy. After a fiery 2024 Formula 1 season marred by controversial on-track clashes—most notably with McLaren’s Lando Norris—the four-time world champion has hit back at his detractors, claiming they simply “don’t have the mentality of a champion.”
The Red Bull superstar faced heavy criticism for aggressive moves in Austin and Mexico City, with the latter earning him a rare penalty. But Verstappen, as unapologetic as ever, remains defiant, insisting that his no-holds-barred approach is precisely what makes him unstoppable.
“Sometimes You Cross the Line—And I Do”
Verstappen addressed the uproar directly, pointing the finger at those who fail to understand the ruthless mindset required to conquer Formula 1. In a candid interview with Dutch broadcaster Viaplay, he dismissed the remarks of McLaren CEO Zak Brown and others who questioned his methods.
“Yes, but they don’t have the world champion mentality,” Verstappen said sharply. “I will always go to the limit to get the most out of every race. And if I have to force it, then that’s just how it goes. Sometimes you have to cross a line. Well, I do.”
The penalty in Mexico? A non-issue for Verstappen. “No, not at all. I think I won points there,” he added with trademark bravado.
McLaren’s Inexperience Exposed
While Verstappen celebrated his fourth consecutive title, Red Bull’s constructors’ crown slipped through their fingers, largely due to Sergio Perez’s inconsistent form. In contrast, McLaren stormed to their first constructors’ championship since 1998, but Verstappen wasn’t impressed.
Despite having a competitive car, Verstappen believes McLaren’s inability to manage its drivers—Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri—cost them dearly. “They’ve had a very good car this year,” Verstappen admitted. “But it’s also clear that they still had a lot to learn to really compete consistently.
“Of course, they did well for the constructors’ championship, but they could have prepared much better for the drivers’ championship.”
The Champion’s Killer Instinct
Verstappen’s comments underscore a season of intense rivalry and, at times, fractured friendships on the grid. While Norris emerged as a title contender, Verstappen’s unshakable determination and cutthroat approach proved to be the difference between victory and defeat.
“I will always do everything to get the maximum result,” Verstappen emphasized. “Not everyone understands that. Not everyone has that mentality.”
Red Bull’s Next Battle
Heading into 2025, Verstappen’s focus will be on maintaining his dominance as Red Bull looks to regain their edge in the constructors’ standings. With McLaren hungry for more success and Ferrari bolstering their ranks with Lewis Hamilton, the Dutchman’s “champion mentality” will face its toughest test yet.
For now, though, Verstappen has made one thing abundantly clear: If you want to beat him, you’ll need more than just a fast car—you’ll need a killer instinct to match.
Verstappen’s words echo through the paddock as a warning shot to rivals: the reigning king of Formula 1 isn’t backing down, and he’s ready to cross any line necessary to remain on top.