The Hungarian Grand Prix was a thriller this weekend, not only because of all the on-track action but also because of the off-track drama. Despite a McLaren 1-2 finish, which gave Oscar Piastri his maiden F1 win, Sunday’s race was marred by controversial radio calls and a very angry Max Verstappen. The Dutchman, while getting a decent start, was left frustrated after failing to break Lewis Hamilton’s defence for a podium spot. What followed was a barrage of angry messages from Verstappen over team radio. Keeping instead of things, here are five similar Mad Max moments from the past.
2018 Brazilian Grand Prix: The Ocon Shove
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The Brazilian GP 2018 gave us one of the most memorable Verstappen moments. Max was leading the race when Esteban Ocon, trying to un-lap himself, collided with him. This incident cost Max the victory, and he was not pleased. After the race, Verstappen confronted Ocon in the paddock, resulting in a physical altercation that led to a penalty for Max. The shoving match made headlines and became a classic example of his fiery spirit
2020 Tuscan Grand Prix: Mugello Madness
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The 2020 Tuscan GP was a chaotic race, and Verstappen was caught in the middle of it. On the opening lap, a multi-car crash led to his early exit. Max’s frustration boiled over as he vented over the radio about the “Mugello shit show,” expressing his anger at the unpredictable and dangerous nature of the incident. His colourful language and raw emotion added some spice to an already dramatic race
2021 Bahrain Grand Prix: The Team Orders Frustration
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In the 2021 Bahrain GP, Verstappen found himself leading the race until team orders came through, instructing him to let Lewis Hamilton pass due to a track limits violation. Max reluctantly obeyed but was unhappy, expressing his frustration over the radio. This incident showcased the tension between following team strategy and a driver’s instinct to fight for every position
2020 Portuguese Grand Prix: The Stroll Collision
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During a practice session at the 2020 Portuguese GP, Verstappen collided with Lance Stroll. This incident led to an explosive reaction from Max, who used some not-so-PC language to describe his feelings about Stroll’s driving. His outburst included calling Stroll a “retard” and a “Mongol,” comments that sparked controversy and led to a reprimand from the FIA
2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: The Brake Test
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The 2021 Saudi Arabian GP was filled with drama, especially between Verstappen and Hamilton. In one of the most talked-about incidents, Verstappen was instructed to let Hamilton pass but instead braked suddenly, causing Hamilton to collide with him. This “brake test” manoeuvre led to an angry response from Hamilton and a heated discussion post-race. Verstappen’s tactics were questioned, adding another chapter to the intense rivalry between the two drivers
