Formula 1 loves to tell itself stories of fairness, internal rivalries, and “human management.” Max Verstappen, however, prefers the harsh truth. And it hurts. With a simple observation, the four-time world champion has reignited a firestorm in the paddock: without a clear hierarchy, a team is doomed.
The statement landed like a slap in the face. In an interview with Viaplay, Verstappen He didn’t beat around the bush. If I were a team managerI would clearly define who is number one and who is number two »
A statement that runs counter to the polished discourse of modern F1, but perfectly consistent with the Dutchman’s trajectory. Since his arrival at
Red Bull In 2016, hierarchy was never a taboo. It even became a weapon.
For VerstappenLeadership status is not a privilege; it is a condition for performance. When you are alone, you can go on the offensive; you can be much more aggressive. I still prefer that »
No internal calculations, no excessive caution, no points lost to protect a teammate. The message is clear: a clear leader frees up the driving.
McLaren in Max Verstappen’s sights
Without naming it directly, Verstappen targets a specific team:
McLarenA structure where the displayed equality between pilots has, according to him, come at a high price.
« Without a clear leaderThe risk of strategic errors increases considerably. »
The blunt implication: indecision kills stocks. While some hesitate, Red Bull slice. And wins.
Verstappen He clarifies, however, that the second driver remains essential. He scores points, supports the constructors’ championship, and protects the overall strategy. But he must not disrupt the chain of command.
« The second driver obviously needs to contribute valuable points. but a leadership structure is essential”No contempt. Just an accepted hierarchy.”
In a sport where every thousandth of a point counts,
Verstappen defends a F1 More brutal, more direct, almost old school. A Formula 1 where you don’t play the tightrope walker when a title is at stake.
One burning question remains: will the other teams dare to go as far? Or will they continue to sacrifice titles on the altar of a superficial equality?
