Verstappen and Russell Rivalry Intensifies at Canadian Grand Prix
Montreal, Canada — The 2023 Canadian Grand Prix was marked by a renewed rivalry between Max Verstappen and George Russell, prompting Red Bull Racing to alert race officials about potential gamesmanship targeting the reigning champion.
Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, indicated that the team had requested the race director to closely monitor the interactions between Verstappen and his rivals, particularly following Verstappen’s recent close-call with penalty points after a collision with Russell in Spain.
Starting from the front row, Verstappen and Russell’s anticipated duel did not materialize into immediate drama. However, a late race incident involving a safety car, triggered by Lando Norris’ crash, reignited tensions. Verstappen radioed concerns that Russell had braked too hard and reportedly fell more than the mandated ten-car lengths behind the safety car ahead of the restart.
The situation culminated in Red Bull filing a protest post-race, which the stewards ultimately dismissed. Notably, the protest stated that Russell displayed "unsportsmanlike intent" by alleging that Verstappen had overtaken under the safety car.
Horner confirmed the appeal was pursued without Verstappen’s knowledge, emphasizing that it was the team’s right to contest the matter. “Max was talking to the media and had no idea. It’s within the competitor’s right to raise a protest," stated Horner, highlighting the $2,000 fee for such actions and expressing surprise that their initial concerns were ignored.
Both drivers were summoned to the stewards for a lengthy discussion, lasting approximately 45 minutes, before resuming their activities in the paddock. After nearly six hours post-race, Russell and the Mercedes team celebrated their victory, successfully adding another chapter to their ongoing rivalry with Verstappen.
Horner concluded, "It’s inevitable that there was going to be some potential gamesmanship. Max drove a very good race despite the circumstances."
With tensions still simmering, the dynamics between these leading drivers will undoubtedly remain a focal point as the season progresses.
