After Piquet’s F1 Banishment, Max Verstappen Leaves the F1 Masses Fuming With Disappointing Take On Racial Slur Toward Lewis Hamilton

Nelson Piquet’s comments against Lewis Hamilton have taken the internet by storm. It left the world of F1 stunned and furious at the former champion; with messages of support and promises of change flooding the cyberspace. Immediately, drivers like Daniel Ricciardo, Charles Leclerc, Mick Schumacher, and even F1 teams lent their support to Hamilton. However, Red Bull and Max Verstappen remained quiet. As recent events unfurled, maybe the damage would be more minor if it stayed that way.

The reigning champion boldly attested to Piquet’s character: “he’s definitely not a racist.” Plainly, the internet did not take this well. Considering Verstappen is dating the former champion’s daughter, some could say his hands were tied, while others, that he was biased. Fans, however, couldn’t seem to find a reasonable defense for the Dutchman, even if they tried to.

Verstappen’s statements were not limited to the short phrase. Defending Piquet, the 2021 world champion painted a pretty picture of the triple world champion. “I’ve spent a bit of time with Nelson… He’s actually a really nice and relaxed guy.”

Read more: “I’m Alive”: Resurfaced Interview Shows Nelson Piquet’s Unsettling Comments Toward Deceased F1 Champion Amid Lewis Hamilton Row

Regardless of his arguments supporting Piquet, Verstappen believes what happened was wrong. “People of course label him as a racist now, which I don’t think he is, but I fully agree that you cannot use those words.” He added, “Let it be a lesson for the future not to use that word, because it’s very offensive, and especially nowadays, it gains more traction.”

This staunch defense of the internet’s newfound villain only drew the spotlight onto the man fighting for him.

Max Verstappen faces the wrath of the internet

Listening to these words, the internet didn’t take it easy on Max Verstappen. Tennis star Naomi Osaka’s tweet hit the spot for some; for others, their words did the job.

Fans also collectively agreed that the initial silence would’ve been the better route. Although they extensively questioned Red Bull‘s absence from the discussion, the driver may have done more damage than good.

On the other hand, the loyal Orange Army, too, couldn’t help but shake their heads.

F1 bans Piquet from the paddock- but is that fair?

The Red Bull star furthered his argument by claiming that F1’s actions against Piquet weren’t necessary. Profoundly, the driver claimed it was better to start an exchange, rather than ban people from the paddock.

“You have to communicate. Communication is really important because if you just ban, it’s not helping what you’re trying to enforce. You’re trying to educate people. So it’s better to have a chat.”

Additionally, the driver likens the situation with Hamilton to one of a personal fight. Communication being the key to solving such problems, Verstappen claimed that “you have a good chat and you apologize” and move on.

As a closing statement, the champ added no one should be banned from the paddock for making such a mistake- “especially a three-time world champion.”

Watch this story: Who is Angela Cullen? Fun facts about Lewis Hamilton’s blonde assistant!

The flak thrown at Verstappen is justified as the sport looks to fight its way through these social issues. With Lewis Hamilton leading the way, the battle is long and hard. Although Verstappen’s comments are questionable, one thing holds true: education on the matter is the way to go.