Max Verstappen didn’t limit his competition with Lewis Hamilton to the racetrack during the 2021 Formula 1 season; he also employed psychological tactics off the track. Bradley Scanes, Verstappen’s former performance coach, revealed that Verstappen used a subtle and deliberate approach during post-session routines to disrupt Hamilton’s rhythm, often making the seven-time champion wait and signaling a shift in dominance.
The Changing Dynamics of Post-Session Routines
After qualifying sessions or grands prix, the top three drivers typically move to a cooldown area before attending press conferences. Lewis Hamilton usually took his time changing into casual clothes and preparing for cameras. Verstappen initially followed a quicker pattern, moving through his routine efficiently. However, as their rivalry intensified, Verstappen began to purposefully extend his time changing fully every part of his kit, reversing the usual flow and forcing Hamilton to wait instead.
The Mental Edge Beyond the Track
In the fiercely competitive environment of F1, where physical performance is measured in milliseconds and tire wear, Verstappen’s adjustment was more than a minor annoyance—it was a strategic mind game. Hamilton’s usual weekend routine, which relied on precision and timing, was intentionally disrupted as Verstappen asserted a new psychological presence. This tactic was not meant to embarrass but to quietly establish control in a context where even small details carry weight.
A Reflection of Verstappen’s Composed Competitive Style
Verstappen is known for staying calm under pressure and dismissing paddock politics, so his approach did not require any brash showmanship. Instead, his slow wardrobe change was a subtle inversion of usual habits, symbolizing a shift in momentum. Since adopting this tactic, Verstappen’s performance results have reinforced his growing dominance, while Hamilton’s legacy remains steadfast.
Transforming Annoyance into Advantage
Bradley Scanes described this mind game as an expression of frustration turned into a strategic benefit. If Hamilton’s slower preparation was a source of irritation for Verstappen, it became an opening to gain an edge. This ability to convert tension into fuel for competition is characteristic of elite athletes, turning inconvenience into a psychological advantage.
The Unseen Battle of Formula 1
Debate continues over the line between acceptable mind games and unnecessary distractions, but this episode highlights a key aspect of modern Formula 1: the competition extends well beyond the race itself. It penetrates daily routines, timing protocols, and even the order in which drivers move through shared spaces. Verstappen claimed a small but meaningful victory in this arena, while Hamilton maintained his focus and continued to compete at the highest level.
In a sport where control is paramount, even the timing of a wardrobe change can become a strategic tool.
