“I’m Not Here to Be Liked”: Feisty Max Verstappen Takes Thinly-Veiled Dig at Lewis Hamilton Amid Recent Hostility

It could be a case of blowing things out of proportion, or there might be some truth to it. Whatever the case may be, it has been brought to Max Verstappen’s attention that Lewis Hamilton has not referred to him by his name. Instead, the British world champion has used gender-neutral terms like “they” and “them” while talking about Verstappen.

The suggestion has come after Hamilton has not referred to Verstappen by name in multiple interviews. We can trace this supposed friction back to the events of the 2021 season, especially the Abu Dhabi GP.

Verstappen, while smiling, let his feelings known in a recent interview with TheMail. “People have told me that he doesn’t use my name,” said Verstappen.

He then expressed, “I was always taught that you have to respect what people have achieved in sport. I have no problem with what Lewis has achieved. He is one of the best ever. I think you have to acknowledge the person has done an amazing job as well.”

The peculiar dynamic might have some truth to it, as people also noticed Hamilton’s cold congratulatory handshake on Verstappen’s championship victory in Japan.

WATCH THIS STORY: Lewis Hamilton dismisses beef with Max Verstappen

We are not sure about the gravitas of these claims. Although, Verstappen does not care as he revealed his nonchalant approach to the revelation.

Lewis Hamilton fans showcase their feelings in US GP but Max Verstappen remains unphased

Few fans at the US Grand Prix called Verstappen a “cheater” in the midst of the budget cap drama, an aftereffect of the 2021 season. And now it comes to light that Hamilton has not been referring Max using his first name? That’s also fine. In the end, Verstappen just wants to race and he is not losing any sleep over any of the drama.

“I am not here to be liked and it’s not going to ruin my day. I am having a great time with my team. People can say what they like, but I am here to perform,” admitted the two-time world champion.

Read More: Inevitable Max Verstappen Hailed for Breaking Lewis Hamilton’s “Tiger Woods Effect”

The two drivers have not really locked horns yet due to the difference in their 2022 machinery. However, if all goes right, the two rivals can put on a show in front of the crowd once again in Mexico.