2021 Formula 1 World Champion in a sit-down interview with BBC Sports, said that F1 does not need to heal from the controversial ending that both the drivers and f1 fans witnessed last year, as the dramatic moments are part of every sport and that the racing world is very tough in nature. As the world witnessed seven straight years of Hamilton’s reign, Verstappen’s disruption of the streak was a highlight to add to the F1 history.
The 24-year-old took the World Championship home after overtaking Hamilton on the final lap after the safety car rules were overlooked by Masi in Abu Dhabi. Masi was since removed from his role following the controversy of the authenticity of his decision that questioned the rules already in place. This led to a split of opinions regarding the actual winner for the season and created a ruckus on social media between fans and other athletes who follow F1 alike. According to BBC Sports, the dutchman favours the addition of teams to the F1 as the competition would be even more solid at the end for both the grid and the fans alike.
The new series on Netflix, Drive to Survive has however shown an alternative reality of drivers hating each other because of which both Hamilton and Verstappen have refused to take part in it. “I watched two episodes, but I was not very impressed. It’s just not my thing, faking rivalries”, said Verstappen to BBC Sports as he signed the most lucrative contract to Redbull this summer extending his long term contract until 2028.
The Dutchman also wishes Nikita Mazepin could race again as he was taken off from the F1 including the sponsorship from the team due to his nationality, “everyone, regardless of background, works very hard from a very young age to be a Formula 1 driver” he said as he understands the reason for such sanctions hoping for world peace again.
