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Coulthard doesn't think Verstappen will change: 'He is different from others'
After the Mexican Grand Prix, Max Verstappen's actions during the opening stages of the race have been criticized. David Coulthard said on the Formula for Success podcast that the Dutchman's driving style is part of his success.
Verstappen has always been a difficult driver to overtake. The Dutchman will always defend hard. For example, the rule of not moving whilst braking was introduced after he did so on occasion.
Coulthard on Verstappen's driving behaviour against Norris
Verstappen still looks for the limit when defending, something that has become clear in recent weeks in his battles on track with Lando Norris. Coulthard describes him as the "modern Michael Schumacher", explaining that the Dutchman "is willing to push limits to find out where the sporting lines are. I think that is part of his DNA. Part of his success is the fact that every driver knows they have to fight fire with fire."
The former Red Bull Racing driver does not think that Verstappen will change his driving behaviour: "I think it was inevitable that those penalties would be given after the discussion about the situation in Austin, but I don't suspect for a moment that Max will do anything differently if the same situation happens again. You have to make split-second decisions when the car is at speed and you don't know who is ahead until you get to the apex."
The Scot concluded by saying, "The only way to find out is to try, so I don't expect him to change at all, and really, the fact is just that he is different from others. Every sport needs favourites and baddies and everything in between."
This article has been written in collaboration with Cas van de Kleut.
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