Verstappen supports teammate Hadjar

Max Verstappen has publicly backed his Red Bull Racing teammate Isack Hadjar after the French driver received a warning for pushing back a spectator who was perceived as too intrusive during a Formula 1 event.

Incident during free practice session

The incident occurred as Hadjar was heading to his garage for the first free practice session. According to the explanations given to the stewards, Hadjar had initially agreed to take a photo with a young fan but was then approached aggressively by another spectator, which he felt was an invasion of his personal space.

Stewards issue a warning

The stewards ruled that Hadjar’s action of pushing the individual away was an infraction but decided to issue only a warning, taking into account the circumstances of the incident.

Verstappen defends teammate’s reaction

Verstappen expressed his understanding of Hadjar’s reaction, saying that being touched without permission is extremely annoying. While he has never pushed someone away, he admitted there have been times when he was close to doing so.

Growing crowd in the paddock

Verstappen believes the increasing number of spectators in the Formula 1 paddock has contributed to such incidents. He has previously compared the paddock to a zoo, highlighting concerns about the growing number of visitors allowed access.

Hadjar accepts the decision

Hadjar accepted the stewards' decision, stating that he had adequately explained his side of the story. He emphasized the need for drivers to be able to move freely in the paddock without constant interruptions, particularly from adults who do not respect personal boundaries.

Hadjar differentiates between young fans and adults

The French driver clarified that he is willing to take photos with young supporters, even if he does not want to, but he strongly objects to adults invading his personal space. He stressed that his work in the garage should not be disrupted by unnecessary interactions.

Verstappen satisfied with Red Bull’s progress

Despite the incident, Verstappen expressed satisfaction with the improvements made by Red Bull after challenging free practice sessions. The team made several adjustments to the RB22 before qualifying, helping him regain better sensations during the session.

Verstappen claims to be hindered by Norris

Verstappen claimed that Lando Norris hindered him twice during his qualifying lap. He said that Norris’s position in front of him affected his aerodynamic downforce and that Norris’s trajectory on the right side of the track complicated his braking and reference points.