Max Verstappen defends father's reaction to Perez's victory at Saudi Arabian GP

Max Verstappen addresses controversy surrounding father's reaction

Max Verstappen has come to his father's defense, stating that it's "completely normal" for Jos Verstappen not to have enthusiastically joined in with Sergio Perez's victory celebrations in Saudi Arabia.

The younger Verstappen had to settle for second place after starting from 15th due to a driveshaft failure in qualifying.

Checo Dismisses Tensions

Sergio Perez, who led home a Red Bull 1-2 at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, has downplayed any perceived tension with Jos Verstappen.

Perez told the Press Association, "I have a good relationship with Jos. We respect each other. We know this is sport, and that is how we treat it."

He added that people sometimes "like to create stories that don't exist," emphasizing that they shook hands but it likely wasn't shown on television.

In response to Jos Verstappen's dig at his achievement, Perez said, "I don't think he gets the chance that often. He sees that too and then goes for it."

The Mexican driver, however, remained composed, stating, "He wasn't smiling much, but you don't have to smile every day and all the time."

Max Verstappen: Father's Reaction is Normal

Addressing the supposed iciness between his father and teammate, Max Verstappen spoke to Dutch media in Melbourne, saying, "Obviously, my father is my biggest fan."

"I don't like to lose and neither does my father. That's how we grew up, but they always show the wrong pictures, of course."

He further explained that when Perez wanted to celebrate with his mechanics, his father didn't join the party, as he didn't feel it was his place.

"Look: 'Checo' [Perez] gets out of the car and wants to celebrate with his mechanics, which is quite normal. But another father does not belong to that party, of course."

"Therefore my father did not get in there," Verstappen elaborated.

The Red Bull driver also insisted that he wasn't bothered by fans singling out his father on social media.

He stated, "At the end of the day, we have to focus on ourselves and not on what the Twitter community thinks."

Team Dynamics and the Red Bull Strategy

Red Bull has always maintained that they allow their drivers to race each other, opting for a neutral approach in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

The team's decision to let the drivers work for the win showcased their commitment to fairness on the track.

Christian Horner, has previously emphasized the importance of team spirit and mutual respect among drivers.

"Both Max and Sergio are competitive and driven individuals, and we have always encouraged healthy competition within the team."

"We expect our drivers to push each other while maintaining respect for one another," he said.

Despite the controversy, both Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez are looking ahead to the ongoing Formula 1 season, aiming to secure wins and points for the Red Bull.

Their focus remains on the track, striving for top finishes, and bringing home the Constructors' Championship.