Max Verstappen unapologetically defends his aggressive driving style, dismissing criticism from rivals and fans, and claims it takes a champion’s mentality to understand his approach.

Max Verstappen has never shied away from controversy, and the 2024 Formula 1 season proved no exception. In a year where McLaren’s Lando Norris rose as his fiercest rival, Verstappen’s unapologetically aggressive driving became a lightning rod for criticism. Yet, the Dutchman insists he has no regrets, declaring that those who criticise his approach simply don’t possess the “world champion mentality.”

After a dominant start to the season, Verstappen and his Red Bull team faced mounting pressure from McLaren and Ferrari in the latter half of the year. The intense title battle with Norris culminated in on-track clashes, most notably in Austria, Austin, and Mexico City. Verstappen’s bold manoeuvres—sometimes edging on reckless—drew sharp rebukes from fans, media, and McLaren’s leadership.

One incident in Mexico became a flashpoint. Verstappen was penalised twice with 10-second penalties after forcing Norris off the track in heated duels. McLaren CEO Zak Brown remarked at the time: “Max is such an awesome racing driver, I just don’t think you need to drive like that.”

In an end-of-season interview with Dutch broadcaster Viaplay, Verstappen dismissed the criticisms. He responded directly to Brown’s comments, saying, “They don’t have the world champion mentality. I will always go to the limit to get the most out of every race and if I have to force it, then that’s just how it goes. Sometimes you have to cross a line. Well, I do.”

Asked about the contentious Mexico City race, where he edged Norris dangerously close to the wall, Verstappen stood firm. “No, not at all in that race,” he said. “I think I won points there. Like I said, I will always do everything to get the maximum result for a championship. Not everyone understands that. Not everyone has that mentality.”

Verstappen’s combative defence of his driving style underscores the high stakes of Formula 1. With three world championships under his belt, he believes the ability to push boundaries separates champions from their challengers. However, his approach has sparked debates over F1’s racing rules and sportsmanship, leaving many questioning where the line should be drawn.

The Dutchman also used the interview to critique McLaren’s handling of their title campaign, suggesting that Norris might have beaten him if the team had made better strategic decisions. “They’ve had a very good car this year,” he acknowledged, “but it’s also clear that they still had a lot to learn to really constantly compete.”

He singled out McLaren’s hesitant use of team orders as a critical misstep, implying that their inexperience in championship battles cost Norris the driver’s title. “Of course, they did well for the constructors’ championship,” Verstappen added, “but they could have prepared much better for the drivers’ championship.”

For Verstappen, 2024 was a year of fierce battles and controversy, but also one that reaffirmed his commitment to his driving philosophy. “Sometimes you have to go to the limit or over the limit,” he reiterated. Whether fans love him or loathe him, Verstappen’s relentless pursuit of victory ensures he remains one of F1’s most captivating figures.