Verstappen Explains His Father’s Role in Dealing With Hamilton’s Mind Games Ahead of British GP

Rivals often play mind games to get into each other’s heads. The rivalry between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton is no different, as the title race has never been this nerve-racking.

However, the Red Bull prodigy gets some help from his dad, Jos Verstappen, who was also an F1 racing driver. Max states that his dad plays a crucial role in helping him focus on the main objective rather than get distracted by the noise.

Verstappen thinks help from his dad, Jos helps him to block out the noise

Being asked by BBC if Lewis’s statements can be a distraction, Verstappen replied, “I don’t really pay attention to it if so. We are just very focused on the job within the team and that’s what try to do every weekend.

‘”Because that’s what counts. That’s how my dad taught me to live, you have to focus on yourself and work with your team. Everything else doesn’t matter.”

Being questioned on how he managed to do it, the 23-year-old responded, “After spending a lot of years with my dad, yes. In a lot of different ways. Nice ways. A bit more angry ways. No, it works for me. I needed it. He made me toughen up, which is good.”

Watch Story: Mad Max: Verstappen’s Angriest Rants on Team Radio

Can Max steal Hamilton’s thunder at his home race?

As we prepare for the British Grand Prix at Silverstone this weekend, Verstappen will be looking to extend his lead from arch-rival, Hamilton.

Furthermore, the Dutch driver will be looking to keep the Mercedes driver in his rear-view mirrors and defeat the Brit in front of his home crowd.

Verstappen has 182 points under his belt in the Drivers’ Championship standings, while Hamilton just 150 points. The Dutchman knows he can grab more points from this weekend and increase his lead in the title race.

Meanwhile, the 7-time world champion will aim to have the edge over the Red Bull driver, and grab a much-needed win for the Brackley-based squad.

Who do you think will come out as victorious at Silverstone this weekend? Red Bull’s Verstappen or will British fans be treated by a win by the current reigning world champion? Let us know your predictions in the comments below.

Read More: Verstappen F1 Battle Proves Hamilton No Longer the ‘Spoiled-Child’ He Was Against Rosberg: Coulthard