Source: REUTERS/Massimo Pinca
[Saba Sports News] After securing the pole position at the F1 Imola Grand Prix, Red Bull F1 Team’s Max Verstappen shared an interesting incident that occurred during the qualifying pit stop. Verstappen revealed that when he entered the pits, many people were applauding, but one fan showed him the middle finger. In response, Verstappen reciprocated the gesture. However, during his second pit stop, the same fan started applauding, indicating that Verstappen’s reaction had made a difference. Some fans expressed their admiration for Verstappen’s straightforwardness and authenticity, especially among the younger generation of drivers. Verstappen is known for expressing his dissatisfaction openly during races. This was evident at the 2021 F1 United States Grand Prix. During the second practice session, Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton lined up to begin the practice mode. At the time, Hamilton’s car was in the lead, and Verstappen accelerated to overtake him at Turn 15. However, Hamilton retaliated and regained the position. During their battle, Verstappen was forced off the track. Eventually, Hamilton took advantage of his inside position and pulled away from Verstappen. Frustrated, Verstappen raised his middle finger towards Hamilton and publicly cursed him, calling him a “stupid idiot” over the team radio. In the editor’s opinion, due to Verstappen’s young age and his achievement of winning the F1 World Championship at 24, he may display some youthful impulsiveness and lack emotional control. Without the technical advantages provided by the Red Bull F1 Team, Verstappen would likely have faced significant challenges in winning the F1 World Championship.