Damon Hill’s fierce criticism of Max Verstappen softened after the Dutchman’s stunning São Paulo victory silenced doubters, Hill included.
Recently, Damon Hill has been in the spotlight for his sharp criticism of Max Verstappen, particularly regarding his driving style. The Brit didn’t hold back, often using colorful language. After Verstappen’s victory in São Paulo, Hill even acknowledged that the Dutch driver had managed to silence his critics, including Hill himself.
During the Mexican Grand Prix, Hill once again criticized Verstappen. On the Sky Sports F1 podcast, he called a move Verstappen made on Lando Norris in turn 8 “stupid.” He added, “We’ve seen drivers race hard but fair, but I’m not sure Max can do that. It’s simply not in his philosophy. He’ll never let you pass.”
Arriving determined and frustrated in Brazil, Verstappen faced race control decisions that complicated qualifying and the sprint race for Red Bull. Starting from 17th position, he quickly moved up the pack to lead the race, securing a decisive victory. Hill, attending his first race since Verstappen’s win in Spain, applauded his performance on social media.
During the live broadcast on Sky Sports F1, Hill even complimented Verstappen: “This is one of those performances you’ll remember. From the start, we sensed today could be the day he’d prove to everyone how brilliant he is. And he did. Credit where it’s due.”
Praise soon followed for Verstappen. “I never said he wasn’t an exceptional driver,” Hill assured. “This victory is a clear example of his talent. He dominated the field and showed why he’s about to become a four-time world champion.” With a 62-point lead over his only remaining rival, Lando Norris, Verstappen is all but assured of the title, barring a dramatic turn in the final races.
Hill believes the suspense in the title race is virtually over. Red Bull and Verstappen have shut down McLaren and Norris’s chances of taking the top spot. “They’ve blocked Lando and McLaren from getting back in the race. Max can breathe a bit easier now,” he added. Verstappen now has a renewed engine, ready to carry him through to the end of the season.
It’s surprising to see Verstappen battling this season, as in recent years he dominated without real opposition. Although he started the year strongly, McLaren quickly emerged as a threat, particularly since Miami. “These past few years seemed easy for him,” Hill explained. “Not that he didn’t make an effort, but he made it look easy. This year, with more competition, he lost his momentum for a while.” After a challenging period, notably in Italy, Verstappen and Red Bull have analyzed the issues and improved gradually.
Red Bull’s Revival
In the rainy conditions in Brazil, Verstappen showed his full range of talent. Starting from a tough position, he seized his chance, delivering Red Bull a long-awaited victory after ten races. “It’s been a challenging time for the team, but this performance ends that dry spell,” Hill concluded. With this win, Red Bull has closed the gap on Ferrari in the Constructors’ Championship, and the team is hopeful of moving up a spot before the season ends.
This Brazilian success once again highlights the resilience of Verstappen and Red Bull in the face of competition that has never been so intense.
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Verstappen Silences Hill’s Critique with Brazil Dominance Verstappen Silences Hill’s Critique with Brazil Dominance
