[Saba Sports News] A controversial aggressive overtake unfolded midway through the Miami Grand Prix. Max Verstappen downplayed Carlos Sainz’s criticism after the race, remarking that mid-field battles are like a jungle and can hardly be judged by ordinary standards. Verstappen spun at Turn 2 at the start and dropped to the back of the field. He had to pit early during the safety car window before launching his charge through the pack. As the race unfolded, he quickly caught up with Sainz in the mid-field group and pulled off an aggressive inside braking overtake at Turn 17, diving forcefully into the apex from a relatively long distance. Caught off guard by the sudden move, Sainz was forced to yield to avoid contact. He lost his rhythm as a result and dropped multiple positions amid the crowded pack.
After the race, Sainz voiced his frustration over team radio, arguing that Verstappen forced him off the track and suggesting the manoeuvre bordered on being out of control. Verstappen, however, disagreed. When asked if the overtake was overly aggressive, he retorted: “Where was it aggressive? The mid-field is naturally as chaotic as a jungle.” In his view, tough driving in such scenarios is simply part of racing.
Sainz responded in a more restrained tone. He described the move as wild yet understandable, adding that Verstappen was likely desperate to make up ground after his early-race mistake. He stressed he was not condemning Verstappen’s racing style, but the moment teetered on the edge of control, with a collision feeling imminent at any second.
In my opinion, Verstappen’s forceful overtaking style is a direct reflection of his natural talent and personality. It often produces spectacular passes on traditional circuits, yet his high-risk manoeuvres have repeatedly pushed the limits amid modern Formula 1’s emphasis on regulatory consistency and safety. Whether such driving should be tolerated hinges on the interpretation of F1’s essence — whether it is a pure contest of speed, or a comprehensive sport that embraces teamwork and sportsmanship.