The thing that makes Max Verstappen one of the most consistent drivers in the sport is his ruthlessness and hunger. The Dutchman showcased that hunger during the Saudi Arabian GP as well. Starting from P15, Verstappen was up in second by the halfway mark of the race. However, the incredible comeback wasn’t enough as he showcased in various scenarios. Verstappen wanted to beat his teammate as well and take the win. Although according to former team owner Eddie Jordan, that wasn’t a possibility for Verstappen.

Verstappen and Sergio Perez are separated by one point in the championship. This is thanks to Verstappen’s sneakily snatching away the fastest lap point in the last lap of the race. This made many, including Jordan, question why he did not drive at that pace to catch his teammate. Some would say it was because of Verstappen’s driveshaft problem. However, according to his comments in the Formula For Success podcast, as quoted by F1 Maximaal, the former boss believes Verstappen made that scenario up. Why? Let’s hear it from the man himself.

“I think Max made something up about a driveshaft problem to make himself better off,” says Jordan. “Because I’m absolutely convinced he was told that if Checo was leading the race, he had no power and no clearance to pass him.”

Referencing the fastest lap in the last lap but failing to catch his teammate during the race, he said, “You don’t have to be Einstein to work it out. In my opinion, Max found a good excuse, namely the drive shaft.”

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The Red Bull men have had obvious tensions between them starting from the 2022 season. This scenario could only become worse if the Verstappen isn’t allowed to fight Perez every time the Mexican is leading the race. Moreover, according to a former world champion, Perez leading the race could become a regular fixture, given the opportunity.

Sergio Perez gets rare backing in this era of Max Verstappen supremacy

Damon Hill, the 1996 world champion, recently backed the Mexican after the race in Jeddah. The Mexican got rare backing for his championship challenge, especially in this era of Verstappen dominance. The Brit believes Perez has what it takes to be a champion, but needs the opportunity to prove himself. Moreover, he believes he won’t be a pushover in the current campaign.

Hill said, “Checo jumped on the bandwagon. He showed he can’t be pushed around, and he won’t let himself be portrayed as the weakest link. I remember thinking, ‘This guy is good’ and I’ve watched him throughout his career and kept thinking, ‘Why isn’t anyone giving this guy a real chance?'”

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The Brit has backed Perez for the championship. However, the only backing that can help Perez achieve this dream is from his team. The backing might be there for now. However, as the season progresses, everyone will show their true colors.