MAX VERSTAPPEN has laughed off claims that Lewis Hamilton won’t even say his name.
The pair were embroiled in a bitter battle for last year’s world championship… with Hamilton being denied the title by a botching of the rules by then-race director Michael Masi.
Following Verstappen’s controversial victory in Abu Dhabi Masi was axed… although the Dutchman has followed up his success with a much more comfortable title this time around.
With the championship already in the bag going into this evening’s Mexico GP, Verstappen has opened up about his relationship with rival Hamilton.
Speaking to the Mail, the 25-year-old said: “People have told me that he doesnât use my name.
“I was always taught that you have to respect what people have achieved in sport.
“I have no problem with what Lewis has achieved. He is one of the best ever.
“I know it is not only the car he has been driving. That helps. We all know that, but you still have to beat your team-mate and Lewis has done that consistently.
“I think you have to acknowledge the person has done an amazing job as well.”
Hamilton, 37, has been cordial with Verstappen this season – performing a polite handshake following confirmation of his victory in Suzoka earlier this month.
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Following Red Bull’s cost cap breach, and Hamilton’s general popularity in the States – Verstappen was greeted in Austin, Texas, last week by boos and cries “cheater”.
In response to the jibes, bullish Max said: “Itâs not like football and all the abuse in the stadiums.
“Itâs probably just frustration that has built up among fans of their particular driver who is not doing so well, or they donât like me.
“I am not here to be liked and itâs not going to ruin my day. I am having a great time with my team. People can say what they like, but I am here to perform.”
Verstappen will begin tonight’s Mexico GP on pole position – with Mercedes duo George Russell and Hamilton starting in second and third.
Hometown hero Sergio Perez will get his race underway from fourth position.
Hamilton’s former team-mate Fernando Alonso, who the Brit beat to the world title as a rookie in 2007, bizarrely hit out at him this week.
The Spaniard said: “I have a lot of respect for Lewis, but still it is different when you win seven world titles when you only had to fight with your team-mate.
“Then I think a championship has less value than when you have fewer titles but have had to fight against other drivers with equal or even better material.”
