Max Verstappen has become one of the most dominant drivers in Formula 1, but with his success has come a fair share of criticism and hostility from fans and pundits alike. The two-time World Champion, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise to the top of the motorsport world, is often the subject of online vitriol, and many wonder what fuels this animosity toward the Dutch driver. Now, an IndyCar icon has stepped forward, providing an explanation for the intense dislike Verstappen faces in F1.
In a recent interview, former IndyCar driver and racing legend, Tony Kanaan, shared his insights into why Max Verstappen has become a polarizing figure in Formula 1. Kanaan, who has enjoyed a successful career in open-wheel racing, pointed to Verstappen’s dominant performances and fierce personality as reasons behind the hatred some fans have for the 26-year-old. He noted that Verstappen’s incredible skill on track, combined with his aggressive approach to racing, has made him a target for critics who may feel threatened by his dominance.
“People in motorsport, especially in Formula 1, love to see a rivalry, but they don’t always like it when someone is too good,” Kanaan explained. “Max has a unique combination of talent and fearlessness that puts him in a league of his own right now. He’s not only beating his competitors; he’s doing it in a way that’s unapologetic. Some fans, especially those who support other teams, feel like he’s making it impossible for their favorite drivers to have a fair shot at winning.”
Indeed, Verstappen’s rise in F1 has been meteoric, with him securing back-to-back World Championships in 2021 and 2022. His dominance has been unquestionable, with Verstappen often finishing races in commanding fashion, leaving his rivals in the dust. This kind of success, however, can breed resentment, especially among fans who may feel that the sport is becoming predictable and one-sided. For some, the consistent victories of Verstappen and Red Bull Racing have removed the element of uncertainty that once made Formula 1 so thrilling.
Kanaan also suggested that Verstappen’s brash personality and fierce competitiveness have contributed to the hostility he faces. Unlike other drivers who might try to maintain a more neutral or humble public image, Verstappen is known for speaking his mind and showing little regard for the opinions of others. While this attitude has earned him admiration from those who appreciate his authenticity, it has also led to criticism from those who see it as arrogance or disrespect.
“I’ve always said that racing drivers are the closest thing to real-life superheroes, but they’re also human,” Kanaan remarked. “Max is a champion, but he’s also unapologetically himself. That’s what makes him loved by many, but also hated by others. People like to see the ‘nice guy’ win, and Max isn’t afraid to let everyone know that he’s not here to make friends—he’s here to win.”
Another factor contributing to the resentment toward Verstappen is his association with Red Bull Racing, a team that has dominated the sport in recent years. While Red Bull has a massive following, their success has also drawn the ire of fans who prefer other teams, especially those with a storied history such as Ferrari or Mercedes. Verstappen, as the face of Red Bull’s success, is often blamed for what some view as an imbalance in the sport, with his victories overshadowing other teams’ efforts.
In recent seasons, the rivalry between Verstappen and other top drivers, such as Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, has only intensified the feelings of animosity. As Verstappen’s championship wins mount up, the narratives around his dominance grow more divisive. Fans of other drivers often resort to online criticism or vocal discontent, further fueling the hate directed at him.
Kanaan, however, was quick to defend Verstappen’s right to race the way he does. “At the end of the day, Max is doing his job. He’s not out there to be liked by everyone; he’s there to win and be the best. I think people need to understand that in motorsport, if you want to be at the top, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. It’s cutthroat, and Max understands that better than anyone.”
Despite the hatred Verstappen receives, Kanaan emphasized that this level of animosity is a natural part of sport. He pointed out that great athletes often face intense scrutiny, whether it’s for their success, their style, or their personality. In the case of Max Verstappen, his combination of raw talent, dominance, and unapologetic attitude has made him a target, but it has also cemented his legacy as one of the most polarizing figures in the sport today.
As Verstappen continues to add to his impressive list of victories and titles, the debate around his personality and dominance will likely persist. Whether loved or hated, it’s clear that the young Dutchman has earned his place in the pantheon of Formula 1 greats, and as Kanaan pointed out, it’s the price that comes with being the best in the world. In the end, for those who can’t stand Verstappen, it’s just another reminder that in the world of motorsport, if you’re not making an impact, you’re not doing your job.
