Max Verstappen has offered a measured and diplomatic response to recent comments made by Sergio Perez regarding their controversial clash during the 2022 Formula 1 season.
In a Mexican podcast appearance, Perez discussed the tension that arose after Verstappen refused a team order to let him pass during the 2022 São Paulo Grand Prix, which could have helped Perez in his bid to secure second place in the drivers’ standings. Perez said of Verstappen: “He is like that, he holds things in until he finally lets them out, usually on the track.” He also added that Verstappen “showed who he really is” with his refusal over team radio, referencing a lingering frustration that dated back to the Monaco Grand Prix, where Perez crashed in qualifying a moment Verstappen reportedly believed was intentional and cost him a better grid position.
While the incident led to behind-the-scenes talks at the time, Verstappen allegedly kept his anger bottled up until Brazil, when he denied Perez help on track. The fallout stoked speculation of a deeper rift between the Red Bull teammates.
Now, responding to questions from RacingNews365 about Perez’s podcast remarks, Verstappen played down the narrative of any ongoing conflict:
“No, but I also think how you word \[the question] is not how he meant it,” Verstappen said.
“I have a great relationship with Checo, we were great team-mates and so I have a lot of respect for him, he has a lot of respect for me, and that is it from my side.
I am looking forward to hopefully seeing him again in the paddock soon, and I still need to give him a helmet of mine.
I promised him that because he gave me one of his with a very nice message on it, and I promised him that hopefully, around Mexico, I can give him one of mine.
> So for me, whatever is written in the media, I know how Checo is and we have a great relationship.”
Verstappen’s comments reflect a desire to keep the focus on mutual respect and team harmony, brushing aside any media-fueled tension. Despite the turbulent moment in 2022, he emphasized the strength of their relationship and his appreciation for Perez as a teammate.
This may not erase fan speculation entirely, but Verstappen’s tone suggests both drivers have moved on at least publicly.
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