Topics: Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1, Red Bull Racing, Mercedes
Love him or hate him, Max Verstappen is well on course to forever etch himself into Formula 1 folklore.
Back in 2016, Verstappen was given the Red Bull seat at just 18 years old.
The Dutchman ended up winning the Spanish Grand Prix on his debut for Red Bull, becoming the youngest driver ever to win an F1 race.
Now as a two-time world champion, he is well on course to win his third successive title in 2023.
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Despite his obvious talent, Verstappen’s temperament has been questioned on many occasions, here are the most controversial moments of his career so far.
Daniel Ricciardo - Hungary 2017
The Dutchman went into turn two, locked his brakes and understeered into Ricciardo. Which resulted in an early retirement for the Australian.
On the team radio, Ricciardo said: “Was that who I think it was? F**king sore loser.”
The Australian also branded Verstappen as an ‘amateur’ in his post-race interview.
Esteban Ocon - Brazil 2018
Verstappen was absolutely furious with Ocon after they tangled on track which led to him finishing second behind Lewis Hamilton.
Although the stewards gave Ocon a 10-second penalty, Verstappen took matters into his own hands after the race.
During his cool-down lap, Verstappen blasted: “I hope I can't find him now in the paddock because that guy has a f****** problem.”
The Dutchman was then captured pushing and shoving Ocon at the weighbridge after the race.
Verstappen was ordered to serve two days of public service by the FIA.
Lewis Hamilton - Silverstone 2021
As the pair approached the high-speed Corpse Corner, Hamilton dived to the inside to overtake Verstappen who was turning in from the outside.
Verstappen was sent into the barriers and Hamilton ended up winning the race despite receiving a penalty.
After the race, Verstappen criticised Hamilton’s celebration knowing he was in hospital as a result of their collision.
Lewis Hamilton - Monza 2021
In Monza, the pair collided in spectacular fashion on lap 26.
In an attempt to overtake the Brit, Verstappen ran wide and hit the kerb, which flung his car into the air and it landed on top of the Mercedes, narrowly missing Hamilton’s head.
Abu Dhabi - 2021
Verstappen first title win came in controversial style, Hamilton was on course to clinch the title until the very last lap.
After an incident brought out the safety car, the FIA allowed lapped cars to unlap themselves, allowing Verstappen to overtake Hamilton on the last lap to rip the title away from the Brit.
Sergio Perez - Brazil 2022
Verstappen made headlines after he ignored team order to give sixth position back to Perez on the final lap of the race.
Speaking on the radio, Perez said: “It shows who he really is.”
After the race, the Mexican added: “I believe ... if he has two championships it is down to me.”
