Max Verstappen has dismissed accusations that he threatened the career of a Formula One rival, responding to criticism from former racer Johnny Herbert ahead of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. The Dutchman was accused of threatening Liam Lawson after their collision in Mexico City last week.
Verstappen Responds to Criticism
Speaking to Dutch media in Sao Paulo, Verstappen was unimpressed with Herbert's comments. "Do I understand why he says that? I don't know. Actually, it doesn't bother me at all. What do I care?" he said.
"Everything has simply been discussed properly [with Lawson], so I'll leave it at that. I think that, in general, it is reasonably clear where things stand and what the rules are. Ultimately, I think it is also good for him to realize it. I understand that he wants to make a strong impression, but do that with someone else."
Background of the Incident
The incident occurred during a practice session when Verstappen and Lawson came across each other on track, with neither willing to back off. They went through the tight stadium section of the circuit side-by-side.
Verstappen was pushed off track by Lawson, and the four-time world champion retaliated by squeezing the Racing Bulls on the exit of the final corner before exiting the stadium. The contact caused minor damage to both cars. Both drivers were handed one-place grid penalties as stewards deemed them equally at fault.
Herbert's Criticism
Herbert, a former F1 racer, felt Verstappen's comments about Lawson were a low blow. "I think it was out of order. It came across to me as a threat," he said. "That's not how you go about your racing. It was totally and utterly out of order... especially against Lawson who is fighting for his career and doing a bloody good job."
Verstappen had earlier said: "If I were him I would act a little smarter, and when you're fighting for your seat it's not very smart behaviour," referencing the threat to Lawson's seat for 2027.
Lawson's Position at Racing Bulls
Lawson is ninth in the drivers' standings, the highest of anyone not representing the top four teams. However, he has said he doesn't know what more he can do to keep his seat, with his future out of his hands.
Racing Bulls have only two seats and three drivers in the running for them. Lawson is the senior driver, but some within Red Bull feel he has had his chance, with seats potentially going to Arvid Lindblad, who has had a strong rookie season, and Nikola Tsolov, who is racing in Formula 2 this year.
Chief executive Peter Bayer said last week: "As a team that plays a leading role in developing new Formula 1 talent, it's our job to continually bring new drivers into the series. The decision will ultimately rest with Alan [Permaine, team principal]. He'll make the right decision for the team."
