P1racenews AI automatic summary:
“So for me, whatever is written in the media, I know how Checo is and we have a great relationship.”
Max Verstappen has downplayed Sergio Perez’s comments regarding a controversial incident during their Red Bull F1 tenure. Despite spending four years as teammates between 2021 and 2024, Verstappen and Perez had their share of tensions. Verstappen clinched four consecutive F1 drivers’ titles during this period, with Red Bull also securing two constructors’ titles. The closest competitive moment between the two was in the 2022 season, notably at the Monaco Grand Prix where Perez emerged victorious. Verstappen, later feeling Perez crashed intentionally to gain an advantage, revealed his grudge towards his former teammate. However, Perez insinuated that Verstappen preferred settling issues “on track” rather than off it, indicating a lingering tension. Despite underlying conflicts, both drivers acknowledged a “great relationship”, with Verstappen emphasizing mutual respect and a hope for future friendly interactions in the F1 paddock.
