Damon Hill has strongly criticized Max Verstappen’s aggressive racing style, describing some of his maneuvers as “just not racing.” The Dutch driver’s confrontational approach has often sparked debate, especially during title battles where Verstappen has pushed the limits on the track. Hill emphasized that certain tactics used by Verstappen, such as forcing competitors off the track, fall outside the spirit of fair racing.
This criticism dates back to the intense 2021 championship fight between Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, when Verstappen’s style drew consistent scrutiny, particularly from the British media. Now, as Verstappen vies for another title in 2024 against Lando Norris, these questions have resurfaced due to several incidents in Austin and Mexico where his driving crossed perceived lines.
Speaking on the High Performance Podcast, Hill reiterated his concerns over Verstappen’s approach. He condemned moves that involve shoving rivals off the racing line to prevent overtaking, asserting that this behavior is more akin to bumper car collisions than true racing.
“Running people clean off the track just to stop someone from passing. It is not racing. It’s not racing. It’s simply, it’s dodgems or whatever you wanna call it. We want to see skill. We want to see skill and daring. We want it to be surgically done, not bludgeon. You know, you don’t take a, a mallet to something, you just, we wanna see it done with a rapier, you know, you wanna see it clean, done.”
Hill further stressed the need for limits within motorsport:
“Effectively done and beautifully done. You can’t have a free for all. You have to have someone saying, ‘okay we want to see racing, but we don’t want it going beyond certain bounds.’ You know, you have rules in every sport.”
Despite Criticism, Hill Acknowledges Verstappen’s Status Among Legends
While Damon Hill disapproved of certain aspects of Max Verstappen’s behavior on the track, he also recognized the Dutch driver as one of Formula 1’s elite. Hill placed Verstappen alongside historic figures such as Juan Manuel Fangio, Jim Clark, Ayrton Senna, and Michael Schumacher, naming him a rare talent and a racing phenomenon.
“Right up there, no question.”
The former world champion expanded on what sets Verstappen apart as an exceptional driver:
“Possibly. I mean, in terms of his effectiveness, in terms of his preparedness, his maturity, his speed. He’s a phenomenon and there are very few phenomena. They are the ones that we know of, the Fangios, Jim Clarks, the Sennas and the Michael Schumachers.”
Max Verstappen’s style remains divisive, attracting both admiration for his skill and frustration for his aggressive tactics. This pattern is consistent with the careers of many past greats, such as Senna and Schumacher, who were similarly known for their uncompromising approach on the track.
Implications for Verstappen’s Reputation and the Future of F1
Damon Hill’s remarks highlight the ongoing tension between aggressive racing and sportsmanship in Formula 1, with Max Verstappen firmly at the center of this debate. As Verstappen continues to challenge rivals like Lando Norris and pursues further championships, the sport faces questions about how to balance thrilling competition with fair and safe racing standards.
Hill’s critique suggests there may be increased pressure on governing bodies to enforce clearer boundaries and maintain the integrity of the sport. Verstappen’s place among F1 legends is secure, but how his driving style influences the future rules and culture of racing remains to be seen.
