To be a worthy champion you must race everyone - Verstappen

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Max Verstappen says the Mercedes drivers should race everyone to ensure one of them is "a worthy champion", following Toto Wolff's concerns.

Wolff contacted Jos Verstappen to express his fear that Max could cause an incident which could cost either Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton the championship. While Wolff played down the conversation, Verstappen says he would not expect a Mercedes drive to be told not to interfere if he and Daniel Ricciardo were going for the title.

“No, I mean we should race, everyone," Verstappen said. "Up until the last they should still try to fight for first. Otherwise you are not a worthy world champion, are you?”

Asked how he will race on Sunday, Verstappen replied: “Same like always, I won’t change approach ... which I think is pretty understandable.”

But Verstappen says he doesn't feel Wolff was telling him not to interfere himself, having been asked if he was surprised by the request.

“No, it’s not really said like that. I think it’s all a bit blown up. I think as a driver you always try to do the best possible job.

“It was just a general chat. I don’t think I need to say everything because it’s also a private call isn’t it. It was not like that.”

And Verstappen says he doesn't see the need to speak to Wolff himself about the conversation the Mercedes boss had with his father.

“No, I haven’t seen him at all ... I mean there’s no reason to talk to him is there? I mean, I’m racing for Red Bull not for Mercedes.”

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