Albers: Criticism of Verstappen can be excessive.

      Christijan Albers has commented that Max Verstappen’s relentless mentality is presenting some drawbacks amid ongoing uncertainty regarding his future at Red Bull. The former Formula 1 driver commended fellow Dutchman Verstappen’s aggressive racing style, highlighting his recent duel with Lewis Hamilton.

      “He does it to everyone,” Albers said in response to whether Verstappen's bold maneuver on Hamilton in Hungary was somewhat personal. “That’s what makes Max so impressive,” the ex-Minardi driver continued. “That’s why Red Bull compensates him handsomely.”

      “Every lap, every corner, and at every braking point, he keeps pushing forward.” Nevertheless, Albers expressed in De Telegraaf that Verstappen’s candid public criticism of Red Bull and its car can occasionally go too far. “Max has many positive traits, but there are also some negative aspects. Sometimes I watch specific interviews and question them.”

      Albers acknowledged that while Verstappen’s honesty is valuable, it can pose challenges for a team to handle. “There are 22 drivers who want the best car and aim to win,” he stated. “Yet, I also respect his openness and honesty. He expresses: ‘I don’t like this and that.’ How do you manage that effectively?”

      He noted that Verstappen may become overly focused on his own situation. “I think he is so concentrated on himself that he sometimes forgets that the other 21 drivers also aspire to win and be world champions. Not all of them have the best car, but one can still appreciate his perspective.”

      Albers also aligned with those who feel Verstappen should defend Red Bull more often instead of frequently criticizing the RB22. “I feel that way to some extent,” Albers admitted. “You see it with Adrian Newey as well—creating a basic package from scratch is not straightforward. You have to work with the resources available.”

      “I can understand why one might feel frustrated if things aren’t progressing as envisioned. However, there are a thousand people at the factory, and perhaps seven hundred of them share your vision.” So far, Red Bull has tolerated Verstappen’s increasingly pointed critiques, highlighting the strong position he occupies as he weighs his decision on staying with the team through 2027.