Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is in peak performance mode at the moment for the 2021 season.
With his third win of the season in Le Castellet, the gap between Verstappen and Hamilton has increased to 12 points.
With sixteen races left, one thing is clear – the prime title contenders are Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.
Ahead of the Styrian Grand Prix, the Dutchman made a striking comment against his title rival.
There are other drivers
Even though Hamilton has won three races so far, it is Verstappen’s consistency that keeps him ahead. As a result, there is a verbal battle going on between the two.
After the French Grand Prix, Hamilton had stated that Red Bull have a quicker car. However, Verstappen replied by stating he is quicker than Hamilton in a Mercedes.
He also named four other drivers who he enjoys racing against.
Verstappen acknowledged this type of banter takes place and it is a part of the sport.
What did Verstappen say?
“It was just a counter because he keeps saying the Red Bull is faster than his car, so I’m like, ‘I’m happy to swap and we’ll see the difference’,” he said.
“It’s just a bit of talk from both sides, which is fine. You have to believe in your own capabilities and I do believe I’m the fastest, but he also believes he’s the fastest.
“There are so many good drivers out there who I think also could have won seven titles.
“I do enjoy battling Lewis but I would also enjoy battling Fernando [Alonso], Sebastian [Vettel], Charles, or Lando if they were in that car,” he concluded.
Verstappen enjoying the competition
Even with this type of verbal duels taking place, the Dutchman claims that he is enjoying the competition.
“You always have to just fight your competition and of course you try to be ahead of them. For me, it’s just nice to be racing against very good drivers,” he stated.
The paddock now heads to Austria, Red Bull’s home circuit where Verstappen will try to beat Hamilton once again.
We can only wait and see how that turns out this time.
Let us know what you think in the comments below!
Read More: Christian Horner affirms Red Bull win in France proves they were always compliant with rules