Verstappen Unapologetic Amid Criticisms: 'Turn the Volume Down'

Three-time Formula One champion Max Verstappen remains unapologetic about his outspoken communication style with his Red Bull team. Despite frustrations and radio outbursts during recent races, Verstappen insists he won't change his ways. He emphasizes the importance of open criticism and denies any team restrictions on his participation in virtual sim races.

Three-time Formula One champion and current leader Max Verstappen is standing firm on his communication style with his Red Bull team, despite facing criticism. The Dutch driver, who aired his frustrations over the radio during the Hungarian Grand Prix last weekend, finished fifth and has gone three races without a win.

'You know people that don't like my language, then don't listen in, turn the volume down, you know,' Verstappen told reporters ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix. 'I'm very driven to success, I think I've proven that already, I always want to optimise stuff, now people can argue that he might not be so vocal on the radio but that's their opinion.'

Verstappen argued with engineer Gianpiero Lambiase over team strategy and was also furious after a collision with Lewis Hamilton. However, he maintains that his approach has been effective. 'We are very open-minded, very critical of each other, it's been working for us very well so I don't expect that to change,' Verstappen said, emphasizing the importance of being able to take criticism in sports.

The Dutchman also addressed his participation in a virtual sim race before the Hungarian Grand Prix, denying reports that his team had banned him from future events. 'I raced until 3 a.m., it's not something new and for me, it's something very important in my life. There are no other sim races coming up anyway so nobody has to worry about that,' he said.

Verstappen is currently 76 points clear in the championship, with 11 of 24 races remaining.

(With inputs from agencies.)