Max Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, isn’t happy with how Belgian natives are adopting the 2021 Formula 1 world champion as their own. Verstappen’s mother is from Belgium, but his father’s side is Dutch, and he drives under a Dutch license.
Verstappen became world champion for the first time, aged 24, last season, pipping Lewis Hamilton in the final race of the season.
He prevented Hamilton from winning a record eighth Drivers’ Championship controversially in Abu Dhabi.
And the finale of the race at the Yas Marina Circuit has left F1 Race Director Michael Masi’s future in serious doubt.
Despite the manner in which he triumphed, the Netherlands and Belgium unsurprisingly celebrated the historic victory, treating Verstappen as one of their own.
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However, Jos believes some Belgian fans have only started supporting Verstappen after his title win.
He told De Telegraaf: “Everyone wants a piece of Max at the moment. On the one hand, that’s a nice compliment for him. He’s doing incredibly well.
“In the car, but also outside. He comes across well, has a fresh head and remains himself. So I understand that a lot of people are proud. Of course, I am.
“But at some points, I do have trouble with it. For example, in the eyes of some Belgian media, Max is suddenly a Belgian. I think that’s a bit weak.
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“But since he races under a Dutch license, he is slightly more Dutch than Belgian. That’s how he feels it himself.
“If the Netherlands has to play against Belgium, he is for the Orange. And if he is eighteen and has to choose, it will be for the Dutch nationality.”
Verstappen and Hamilton are set to battle it out again in 2022, and if the season is half as exciting as last time around, fans are in for a treat, regardless of allegiances.
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