Max Verstappen faces backlash over Barcelona GP clash with Russell as Norbert Haug says his apology lacks accountability and real remorse.
Verstappen disappointed Norbert Haug, former Mercedes F1 director, following his clash with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix.
Verstappen received a 10-second penalty for deliberately causing a collision with Russell as they battled for fourth place in the closing stages of Sunday’s race in Barcelona, following a safety car restart.
The Dutchman appeared to be complying with Red Bull’s instructions to yield the position to Russell after an incident at Turn 1, but suddenly accelerated and struck the side of his rival’s Mercedes at Turn 5.
Verstappen crossed the finish line in fifth place but was demoted to tenth after his penalty was applied.
The Red Bull driver’s behavior did not impress Haug, the former Vice President of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, who felt Verstappen did not act like the four-time world champion he is.
“I was completely stunned,” Haug said today.
“I could not believe someone could lose their temper like that. At least he apologized on social media. But I think the whole sequence of events needs to be reviewed, and I would really like to see that happen.”
“And for me, two very simple words were missing at the end of his apology: ‘Sorry, George’. And maybe he could have apologized to the stewards. That should not have happened. It’s a good start, but as we all know, a proper ending completes the event.”
“So I expected him to say: ‘I apologize to George, to the FIA for my misconduct, and to all the fans who were watching us’.”
“He is someone who is admired, and rightly so. Undoubtedly the best racing driver of our time, and has been for quite some time. And he must therefore act accordingly.”
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