Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen
“People no longer endure the truth”
04/22/2025 – 10:35 a.m.Reading time: 2 min.
Max Verstappen not only stands out on the Formula 1 route, but also regularly. He now wants to reduce that.
Max Verstappen missed a muzzle himself, largely refused dialogue with the media at the Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia or only replaced to questions. In an interview with ex-driver David Coulthard, the Dutch was asked about the controversial scene after the start, in which a violation of the standard cost him a five-second penalty. Verstappen initially replied without answering: “I want to do it briefly. I would like to thank the fans here in Dschidda.”
At the press conference, a journalist then asked him whether the multiple world champion would be Formula 1 and the whole thing around it. His answer: “No. It generally has to do with social media and today’s world.” He didn’t want to say much “because words are often twisted or misinterpreted”.
Verstappen is not only misunderstood, but also limited in his freedom of expression. “As I said, this is the world in which we live. You shouldn’t express your opinion because it is apparently not valued or some people no longer endure the whole truth.”
The consequence for the Red Bull pilot: “It is actually better if I just say less.” This saves time – and be the better way at the end. In the current situation, factual criticism is hardly possible because many people reacted hypersensively. “Less talking – all the better for me,” continued Verstappen.
The Dutch rules of conduct that have become stricter also targets the Dutch. “I know that I am not allowed to swear here – but at the same time you shouldn’t be critical in any way that could somehow be interpreted as harmful or dangerous,” said Verstappen. He added with a sarcastic swipe: “It is best to get the rules out, there are a lot of regulations in it.”