Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand Prix to take a swipe at the British media, who he believes has been overly critical of the Red Bull driver lately.
Verstappen’s victory at Interlagos was nothing short of a masterclass – starting 17th on a wet grid and tearing through the field to claim victory with a stunning 19-second lead over Alpine’s Esteban Ocon.
Many members of the British media were harsh on the Dutchman after the Mexico City Grand Prix, where Verstappen received two 10-second time penalties following his close fought battles with Lando Norris.
So, after his brilliant comeback performance in São Paulo, the championship leader couldn’t resist poking a little fun at the absent British press in the post-race press conference.
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Glancing around the room, Max joked, “I have a quick question here. I mean, I appreciate all of you being here, but I don’t see any British press!”
With a cheeky grin, he added, “They have to run to the airport, or they don’t know where the press conference is?”
Max’s quip earned chuckles from his podium companions, Ocon and Pierre Gasly, who enjoyed the banter. Gasly, with a knowing smile, chimed in, “That’s a fair question.”
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But if Max’s humor was on the lighter side, his father’s response was a bit spicier.
Speaking with De Telegraaf, the elder Verstappen made his feelings crystal clear, hoping the São Paulo Grand Prix win would give British commentators, journalists, and former drivers “something to chew on.”
"This is Max's perfect answer to a lot of whining, and certainly in the direction of the English," commented Jos.
"Commentators, journalists and former drivers - they will keep their big mouths shut for now. Max has shown that he is the very best.
"Those people who shout that he should change his driving style? His driving style is perfect! Also such a first lap in the rain, where he made up six places. He is always perfect in these conditions."
But Jos didn’t stop at one interview; he took his commentary international, telling Sky Germany that Max’s win should be a clear reminder to his critics of his outstanding skill.
“He showed who is the best,” said Verstappen Sr. “I believe he was very motivated after the negative journalists from England and the negative drivers.”
In Jos’s view, this criticism only fuels Max to perform even better.
“They think they are taking him out of his good mood, but he will only get better because of it,” he added.
“I’m very proud of what he did. The whole world saw who is the very best.”
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