“I have the wrong passport,” Max Verstappen hits out at F1’s alleged nationality bias after US GP clash

Max Verstappen humorously claims his Dutch passport is the reason for criticism, addressing the British media bias during a livestream.


“I have the wrong passport,” Max Verstappen hits out at F1’s alleged nationality bias after US GP clash

Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris had a controversial clash at the US GP, where Verstappen pushed Norris off track, resulting in a penalty for the Brit. The incident ignited debates among fans, with Verstappen facing criticism for his aggressive driving. In response, the Dutchman took a swipe at his critics, confidently defending his actions and racing approach.

Lando Norris is trying to catch up to Max Verstappen in the F1 World Championship. At the United States Grand Prix, the two battled hard on track, with Norris aiming to close the gap. However, the Brit received a penalty for overtaking Verstappen off-track, which hurt his chances.

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Afterward, there was debate about why Verstappen wasn’t penalized for going off track while defending his position. During a fun livestream, the 27-year-old discussed the situation, emphasizing that rules must be followed and that he did just that.

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We have to stick by the rules, just as we do in F1.

Max Verstappen said on Team Redline Livestream

While streaming, one of Verstappen’s fellow streamers joked about how the critics are still talking about him not getting a penalty at COTA. He responded with sarcasm, saying he figured out the problem, it was his Dutch passport.

The three-time world champion has previously criticized the British media for favoring British drivers and defending them whenever he or others face criticism. However, much of the British media’s criticism of Verstappen stems from strong national fandom rather than outright bias.

I figured out the problem. I have the wrong passport!

Max Verstappen said

Max Verstappen’s ‘intention’ to stay with Red Bull until 2028

Ahead of the Mexican GP, Max Verstappen reflected on the struggles he has faced this year. The race in Austin marked a resurgence for Red Bull after a disappointing performance leading up to Singapore.

Max Verstappen (via Planetf1)
Max Verstappen (via Planetf1)

While the RB20 didn’t meet his expectations and could have triggered his exit clause, Verstappen emphasized his commitment to staying with Red Bull until 2028. He clarified that his contract is signed until then and that he wants to finish his time with the team on a strong note. The Dutchman insisted that his only intention remains to perform better, regardless of the car’s performance.

That’s definitely the intention, I signed a long-term deal with the team and in a perfect world, we of course end it here.

Max Verstappen told AFP

Currently, Verstappen sits 57 points ahead of Norris, after finishing on the podium ahead of the latter in Austin. To close this gap, the 24-year-old needs to consistently outperform Verstappen and secure podium finishes in every race.