Max Verstappen’s remarks about this weekend’s inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix left Martin Brundle feeling less than impressed.
Ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Martin Brundle expressed his dissatisfaction with current world champion Max Verstappen.” The Red Bull driver has been outspoken in his criticism of the most recent addition to the Formula One schedule.
Verstappen has been opposing the increasing importance of media appearances and showmanship surrounding the sport for some time, and this has peaked in Las Vegas with the Dutchman making his thoughts known regarding his frustrations with the event.
Discussing the controversy on the Sky Sports F1 broadcast, Brundle stated: “If he [Verstappen] doesn’t like it, I’m not sure he needs to say anything at all. I’m a bit disappointed with that because standing on a roster and coming up and waving a lot of adulation from the fans, it’s not the worst job in the world, is it?
“It’s not that difficult. You’re not on the shipwork or down the mines or something. So I don’t understand why he feels so negative about it.”
2009 world champion Jenson Button also contributed to the debate, adding: “I’m surprised that he was so outspoken. But that’s the way Max is. He wants to go racing. And that’s all he wants to do, it seems. But there are other parts to this, as we all know. The racing is the fun bit. We get paid for all the other stuff.”
Verstappen’s comments have sparked discussions about multiple parts of the weekend, but his biggest complaints have related to the grand opening ceremony that kicked off the Las Vegas GP, as well as the track layout design.
Speaking after the opening ceremony, Verstappen stated: “For me, you can all skip these things. It’s not about the singer, it’s just standing up there, you look like a clown.” The 26-year-old was visibly uninterested while standing on the raised platform on the grid during the spectacle.
When questioned about the track arrangement, he also shared his opinions, saying, “Yeah, not very interesting.” To be honest, there aren’t that many corners. I’m not sure. Indeed, it will also likely rely somewhat on how grippy it is.
They simply weigh too much. It doesn’t help, particularly if you have a low grip. Of course, driving around the Strip will be fantastic, but the layout isn’t the most exciting, in my opinion. There are many more thrilling high-speed turns in an F1 car.”