Red Bull’s Max Verstappen believes that he would have defeated the 7-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton, if they both had the same car.

Max Verstappen looked poised to secure his first-ever win at Baku until he crashed out after a tire blowout with just 5 laps remaining.

He was involved in a frightening crash when his left-rear tire failed at the end of the lap sent the Red Bull driver into the wall, which resulted in a red flag.

After the restart, Hamilton had a golden opportunity to top the Drivers’ Championship. Unfortunately, an unexpected brake balance setting change caused him to lock brakes on Turn 1, causing him to slide off the track, ultimately finishing at P15.

Meanwhile, after the race, Max Verstappen hit back at Lewis Hamilton, claiming Red Bull had the fastest car at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

Watch Story: F1 Drivers Fighting on Track

What did Max Verstappen say?

Lewis Hamilton, after the race, reported that his car’s lack of pace as compared to Verstappen is because of Red Bull experiencing the fastest car on the streets of Baku although the Dutchman does not agree.

“I would say that if I were him. I think if I’m in his car I’m driving two-tenths faster than him. I don’t care what he says,” said Max Verstappen after the race. (Quotes translated from Dutch via Google translate)

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When asked about why Hamilton is making mistakes he responded, “Everyone is trying to do their best, right? I’m not going to say he makes mistakes because he feels pressure. Everyone is trying to get the most out of it, so am I.

“Lewis has to fight not only with his team-mate this year, but also with another team. That adds an extra dimension and I think that is only good for the sport.”

Verstappen on ‘missed opportunity’ at Baku

Both Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen added no points at Baku, but the two drivers will decide who will be the world champion this season.

Although the damage was limited by Lewis Hamilton’s mistake at the restart, the Dutchman regrets the missed opportunity to increase his lead in the championship.

“Our car was very good, but to be honest I expect a very strong Mercedes on normal tracks. I am disappointed with this missed opportunity to finish.

“We need those points over the whole season, especially if we go back to normal circuits,” said Verstappen despite being able to hang on to the championship lead.

Won’t Give Up on F1 Title Fight With Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton: Valtteri Bottas

Can Max Verstappen increase his lead over Lewis Hamilton in the Drivers’ Championship with French Grand Prix around the corner? What do you think? Let us know in the comments section below.