Nico Rosberg and Max Verstappen.
Nico Rosberg made his disappointment clear over Max Verstappen’s sim racing activities in Hungary, comparing him to Lando Norris’ “professional” approach.
Just like he did back at Imola, Verstappen mixed the virtual and real racing worlds across the Hungarian Grand Prix, where he took part in not only Formula 1 action, but also the 24 Hours of Spa virtual event.
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Verstappen’s intense competition lasted until 3am before the Hungarian Grand Prix. His passionate exchanges on team radio during the race caught the attention of Sky F1 lead commentator David Croft, who repeatedly mentioned the possible impact of the earlier sim race.
2016 World Champion Rosberg expressed his disappointment when he learned that Verstappen was engaged in such behavior. Rosberg further shared a conversation he had with McLaren’s Lando Norris, comparing their routines and implying that Verstappen’s early success during F1’s ground effect era might have influenced his less “professional” conduct.
Rosberg, who was a Sky F1 pundit in Hungary, commented on his conversation with Lando from the previous night, expressing his genuine admiration for the young athlete’s remarkable improvement in professionalism.
“When he first began his F1 journey, particularly competing against Daniel Ricciardo, he didn’t prioritize striving for perfection as an athlete.”
However, this past weekend, his bedtime was 1105 instead of the usual 1100. Additionally, he woke up at 0805 and was pleasantly surprised to find that breakfast was already prepared, with specific instructions on what to eat. The level of attention to detail in making the breakfast was impressive and comforting.
“Meanwhile, on the other hand, we had Verstappen, who spent his time sim racing until 3am last night. Frankly, it’s quite disheartening, don’t you think? This only demonstrates his excessive comfort with being in control.”
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Naomi Schiff, a colleague and pundit at Sky F1, expressed that Verstappen must dedicate himself to working harder. She believes Norris still has a chance in the Drivers’ Championship as McLaren performed exceptionally well in Hungary, with Oscar Piastri leading a one-two finish.
Verstappen, who had a clash with Lewis Hamilton while vying for the last podium position, could only secure P5. As a result, Norris reduced Verstappen’s lead to 76 points. Schiff acknowledges that Norris’ pursuit does exert some pressure on Verstappen.
“Schiff mentioned that Max is in a favorable position since he is ahead, which means Lando will have to put in all the effort to catch up.”
However, Max will face some pressure due to this situation. I am saying this because if they continue to have weekends like this one, it is evident that McLaren has emerged as the team to beat. Both of their cars are leading the pack, and rightfully so, as they have shown a stronger pace compared to the Red Bulls.
“If Max continues on this path, he will need to start putting in the effort that he hasn’t had to exert in the past few years due to their overwhelming dominance.”
Red Bull are under more immediate threat in the Constructors’ Championship, with McLaren now only 51 points behind.
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