Why is Max Verstappen furious on George Russell?

Max Verstappen and George Russell are engaged in a controversial war of words at the Abu Dhabi GP this weekend.

Why is Max Verstappen furious on George Russell?

George Russell and Max Verstappen (via Red Bull)

Max Verstappen has gone on an all out attack on George Russell following the Qatar GP last weekend. The four-time world champion has made some bold claims over the Mercedes driver. However, fans have found it difficult to understand the inception of this saga.

On the other hand, George Russell has not been silent either. The Briton hit back at Verstappen on Thursday at the Abu Dhabi GP, claiming that he had been disrespected by the Red Bull driver. Moreover, even Mercedes boss Toto Wolff joined in on this fight, labeling Christian Horner as a ‘yapping terrier.’

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Tensions between the two drivers have only escalated. So much so, that George Russell refused to sit beside the 27-year-old for the annual drivers’ dinner. This raises the question, why are Verstappen and Russell in a war of words?

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Max Verstappen blames George Russell for Qatar penalty

The reigning world champion dropped to second place on the grid for the Qatar GP despite taking pole position. Max Verstappen was handed this grid drop for being unnecessarily slow in front of George Russell. Though, the Briton was not on a quick lap.

Max Verstappen and George Russell (via MotorsportImages)
Max Verstappen and George Russell (via Motorsport Images)

Russell was the one who reported the incident to race control. Things got worse when the two drivers were summoned by the stewards. Max Verstappen claimed that George Russell crossed limits while making his case in front of the FIA. While Russell insisted that it was nothing personal against the Dutchman.

However, things only became worse. Verstappen did not hold back from making his feelings known even after he won the race. Subsequently, George Russell attacked the 27-year-old in a pre-scheduled conference with a handful of selected reporters.

Russell’s remarks further sparked controversy with both sides now going against one another. It seems that both drivers have taken the situation personally and now the matter might be getting out of hand. Though, tensions between Verstappen and Russell might subside once the season comes to an end on Sunday.