Max Verstappen confirmed that his `like` on a social media post criticizing Red Bull`s decision to swap Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda was intentional.
Verstappen`s Instagram account liked a post by former Dutch F1 driver Giedo van der Garde shortly after Red Bull announced Lawson`s return to Racing Bulls and Tsunoda`s promotion to the main team for the Japanese Grand Prix weekend.
Lawson, who participated in just two races for Red Bull, expressed his shock to Sky Sports F1 regarding the decision.
What did Van der Garde say?
Former Dutch F1 driver Giedo van der Garde:
`I`m tired of comments that F1 is the toughest sport where underperformance leads to consequences.
`Performance and pressure are key, but this driver swap seems more like bullying or a panic move than a focus on athlete achievement.
`Red Bull made a conscious decision, giving Liam only two races, potentially damaging his morale. We must remember Liam`s dedication, hard work, and success to reach this level.
`Yes, his first two races were not perfect, and he is likely aware of that. Perhaps he initiated this change, but if not, I wish Liam strength and courage to compete in Japan. Believe in yourself, stay positive, and prove them wrong @liamlawson30.`
Verstappen stated in Suzuka, `I liked the comment, the message, it speaks for itself. It wasn`t a mistake.`
Helmut Marko, Red Bull advisor, also mentioned that Verstappen believes the team `replaced Lawson too early` but `understands the rationale`.
Verstappen, currently behind Lando Norris by eight points in the Drivers` Championship, declined to further elaborate on his views to the media.
`My reaction was communicated to the team, concerning not only the swap but broader issues. We had discussions last weekend and at the factory,` he added.
`Everything has been shared with the team about my opinions. It`s not always necessary to make everything public. I believe it`s better this way.`
When asked by Sky Sports F1 if he had spoken with Lawson, Verstappen replied, `I`ve discussed everything with the team, and I`ve spoken to Liam. That`s all I can say.`
Verstappen: Red Bull Car is More Sensitive
Verstappen`s driving style, which favors a sharp front end for quick car rotation, can lead to rear instability. This characteristic has been challenging for his past teammates, including Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Sergio Perez, and recently, Lawson.
He believes finding a `middle ground` is difficult, especially considering Lawson`s limited F1 starts.
`People often mention Liam`s total of 11 races, but they were spread out,` Verstappen noted.
`For a rookie entering F1 in the current era, it`s very demanding. Many tracks are new to them, and Sprint weekends add complexity. These factors are not helpful.`
`From my perspective, it`s hard to judge the car`s handling because I`ve only driven for Red Bull. I adapt to the best of my ability.`
The Red Bull car is reportedly more challenging to handle compared to others, including the Racing Bulls car, as suggested by competitive performances from Tsunoda and Isack Hadjar.
Verstappen acknowledged that Racing Bulls, the second Red Bull team, has done `a very good job` with their car, showing pace close to Red Bull in Australia and China qualifying. However, he noted that `the race is a different story`.
`From what I observe, the Red Bull car is slightly more nervous and unstable in cornering compared to what some teammates might be accustomed to,` he concluded.
Verstappen Emphasizes Car as Main Issue
Verstappen has achieved strong results this season, including a second place in Melbourne, third in the Shanghai Sprint, and fourth in the main Chinese Grand Prix.
The 27-year-old, aiming to match Michael Schumacher`s record of five consecutive drivers` titles, reiterated that Red Bull is `trying their best` to reduce the gap to McLaren, the current leading team.
`I think our primary issue is that our car isn`t performing as desired,` Verstappen stated.
`Everyone in the team is aware of this, and that`s my main focus. Once the car becomes more competitive and generally easier to drive, it will naturally benefit everyone, including the other car.`
