Verstappen hits back stating he prefers to ‘fight on the track’

MAX Verstappen has hit back at Lewis Hamilton, calling the world champ “disrespectful”.

Hamilton, who is set to win his sixth title at this weekend’s US Grand Prix in Austin, opened the war of words with Verstappen after he took aim at the Dutchman’s driving in Mexico.

Hamilton claimed that he affords the Red Bull driver extra room in the fear of being “torpedoed” after their first-lap altercation last weekend. Sebastian Vettel was in agreement with the Briton’s remarks.

“It was a silly comment to make,” said Verstappen. “I don’t need to dig into other people in a press conference because it is disrespectful and I prefer to fight on track.

“It only shows that I am in their heads and I guess that is a good thing. I am a hard racer, but fair, and it is just not correct (what Hamilton said).

“I like to fight hard but on the edge.

“If they want me to stay behind it is better that I stay at home.

“I want to take the fight to them because that is what we are here for. We are in Formula One, we are the best out there and we fight for victories. That is what I live for.”

Hamilton is bidding to close out the championship that will take him to within one of Michael Schumacher’s record haul of seven.

Hamilton, a winner i n five of his previous seven visits to Austin, needs to finish only eighth to secure the title.

Prior to Verstappen’s fiery comments, Formula One’s American owners, Liberty Media, outlined its vision for the future by unveiling the first images of how the cars will look in 2021.

The new machines are expected to be up to three seconds slower but it is hoped they will encourage closer action. They will also be heavier.