July 24, 2025 – Former Formula 1 World Champion Damon Hill has publicly voiced his opposition to Mercedes considering a move to sign Red Bull’s star driver, Max Verstappen. The 1996 champion, known for his forthright opinions, has stirred controversy by claiming that Verstappen relies on aggressive tactics and psychological intimidation to secure victories, likening his driving style to that of a cartoon villain rather than a strategic racer. Hill’s remarks come amid ongoing speculation about Verstappen’s future, with his Red Bull contract containing performance clauses that could allow him to explore other teams, including Mercedes, as early as 2026.
Hill, who has been a vocal critic of Verstappen’s on-track conduct in recent years, expressed his concerns on a recent episode of the BBC’s Chequered Flag podcast. “Max is a phenomenal talent, no question,” Hill stated, acknowledging the Dutch driver’s undeniable skill. “But his approach often feels like he’s driving with his fists, not his mind. He uses fear and intimidation, which isn’t the kind of racing we should celebrate.” Hill’s comments echo his previous criticisms, notably when he compared Verstappen to Dick Dastardly, the scheming antagonist from the animated series Wacky Races, following a controversial clash with McLaren’s Lando Norris at the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix.
The speculation surrounding Verstappen’s potential move to Mercedes has intensified due to Red Bull’s recent performance struggles. Despite Verstappen’s four World Championships and 65 race wins, Red Bull’s RB21 car has been inconsistent in the 2025 season, leaving Verstappen third in the Drivers’ Championship, 49 points behind leader Oscar Piastri. Reports indicate that Verstappen’s contract includes an exit clause tied to Red Bull’s performance, potentially allowing him to leave if the team fails to finish in the top three of the Constructors’ Championship. With new regulations set to reshape the sport in 2026, teams like Mercedes, Aston Martin, and even Ferrari have been linked with the 27-year-old Dutchman.
Mercedes, in particular, has been viewed as a strong contender to secure Verstappen’s signature, especially given their anticipated engine advantage under the 2026 regulations, which will emphasize 50% electrification and sustainable fuels. Team principal Toto Wolff has previously expressed interest in Verstappen, though he recently stated that Mercedes is content with their current lineup of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. However, Hill believes that signing Verstappen would be a mistake for Mercedes, arguing that his aggressive style clashes with the team’s ethos. “Mercedes has always prided itself on precision and professionalism,” Hill said. “Bringing in a driver who thrives on chaos could disrupt that harmony.”
Hill’s critique of Verstappen is not without precedent. Throughout the 2024 and 2025 seasons, he has consistently called out Verstappen’s aggressive maneuvers, particularly in high-profile incidents with Norris and Russell. At the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix, Verstappen received a 10-second penalty and three penalty points for a collision with Russell, bringing him dangerously close to a one-race ban under F1’s penalty point system. Hill described the move as “over the top, as usual,” reinforcing his belief that Verstappen’s tactics prioritize intimidation over skill. Despite Verstappen’s later apology for the incident, Hill remains unconvinced that the Red Bull driver has changed his approach.
On social media, Hill has doubled down on his stance, contrasting Verstappen with F1 legend Niki Lauda. Responding to Alain Prost’s comparison of Verstappen to Lauda, Hill quipped that Lauda “drove with his mind, not his fists,” emphasizing a more calculated approach to racing. This comment sparked significant backlash from Verstappen’s fans, with some on X accusing Hill of bias and bitterness, particularly given his British background and perceived favoritism toward drivers like Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.
Despite his criticisms, Hill has not entirely dismissed Verstappen’s greatness. In a recent interview with The Guardian, he described Verstappen as a “phenomenon” whose discipline and preparedness place him among F1’s all-time greats, such as Juan Manuel Fangio, Jim Clark, Ayrton Senna, and Michael Schumacher. However, Hill argues that Verstappen’s lack of a true rival to define his legacy—unlike the iconic battles of past eras—diminishes the sport’s competitive spirit. “Max is honed to fight, but he needs a nemesis to bring out his best without resorting to aggressive tactics,” Hill noted.
The debate over Verstappen’s future is further complicated by Red Bull’s internal challenges, including the departure of design guru Adrian Newey and engine partner Honda ahead of 2026. Hill has suggested that Verstappen might even consider a sabbatical in 2026 to assess which team emerges strongest under the new regulations, a move he described as “wise” given Verstappen’s youth and already illustrious career. “He’s young enough to take a year out and come back stronger,” Hill said. “Why stay with a team that can’t deliver?”
As the F1 world awaits Verstappen’s next move, Hill’s outspoken criticism has reignited discussions about the balance between aggression and artistry in racing. While some see Verstappen’s intensity as a necessary edge in a fiercely competitive sport, others, like Hill, argue for a return to skillful, surgical racing. Whether Mercedes will heed Hill’s warning or pursue Verstappen remains to be seen, but the controversy ensures that the Dutch driver’s future will remain a focal point as the 2025 season progresses.
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