With the blistering start to the 2023 season, Max Verstappen is on cloud nine. The Dutchman is sailing toward his third championship with incredible performances week in and week out. There was a threat from his teammate at the start of the season. However, that has subsided, and no one seems to be close enough to threaten his title in the current season so far. However, there are two drivers who might hinder this progress, according to Red Bull’s taskmaster Helmut Marko. Marko believes these two are the only ones capable of “pi**ing off” Verstappen.

Soon after the Canadian GP, Marko detailed his concerns. He believed neither Hamilton nor Alonso posed a threat to the Dutchman in the race. However, looking at the bigger picture, the oldies of the grid are the only two drivers that are close enough to challenge Verstappen for a race win. Alonso has already showcased that with his consistent podiums. After the upgrades, Hamilton is also proving he can be a threat in the long run. Marko addressed these exact concerns while shaming the current younger generation of drivers, as quoted on Twitter.

Marko said, “In a way, young people should be ashamed of themselves. The big two, who are the only ones who can ‘piss off’ Max Verstappen, add up to 80 years: Alonso and Hamilton!” The combined “80-year” olds might very well be the reason for Versappen’s misery in the current season. However, for now, there is a friendly atmosphere on the podiums when the three are up there.

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In fact, after recovering from his heartbreaking loss in 2021 and continued misery in 2022, Hamilton has warmed up to the Dutchman and is recognizing his dominance currently. The same goes for Verstappen as well.

Despite Helmut Marko’s claim, Max Verstappen buries old rivalry and gives a genuine compliment to Lewis Hamilton

The two ardent rivals have turned a new leaf in their relationship in 2023. We did not see this attitude towards each other in 2022, perhaps some lingering emotions. However, in 2023, Hamilton is happier with his team’s developments and Verstappen is obviously on top of the F1 world. With this satisfaction in their current roles, the two have left their 2021 rivalry behind and often appreciate each other.

Hamilton, in passing, did so by claiming Verstappen “will be gone” in the Canadian GP race and he will focus his energy on Alonso. Whereas, Verstappen put a lot of respect behind Hamilton’s name. He said, “I don’t think he needs to look over his shoulder. He has achieved so much in the sport.”

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WATCH THIS STORY: Bromance moments between Max Verstappen & Lewis Hamilton

This scenario might completely flip on its head in the coming season if Mercedes can get Hamilton up to Verstappen’s speed. However, until then, let’s enjoy this bromance.