F1 champion explains why it's positive that Verstappen “doesn’t respect anyone”

Max Verstappen’s ruthless aggression, both on the track and in front of the cameras, has inevitably led to the formation of two opposing camps. Some admire him for his innate ability to often push the limits like great champions are used to do, while others believe he frequently engages in behavior that crosses the line of the rules.

“Max is impressive because of his pure speed and the control he has of the car'', two time world champion Mika Hakkinen said in an interview with italian publication Corriere della Sera.

Speaking of his way of racing on track, the finn added: ''Many people don’t like it, but his rivals, to beat him, have to be smart, find the right strategy. They certainly can’t expect him to change.”

Despite praising him, Hakkinen believes that the level of the current drivers on the grid is extremely high:“Today the level of the drivers is very high. Many can win the World Championship. The competition is very tough.”

“Today technology helps drivers to reach very high levels. With commitment, you can become a good driver, but talent is something you have inside. And now there are several exceptional talents in F1.”

Verstappen was involved in one of the behaviors described by Hakkinen just last weekend in Spain, hitting George Russell’s Mercedes at turn 5 following an earlier contact at turn 1 during the restart after the Safety Car.