Sir Lewis Hamilton has called for “respect” following Max Verstappen calling him a “stupid idiot” last time out in Austin.
The Dutchman made the comment on the radio during Free Practice Two (FP2), after he and Hamilton went side-by-side into Turn One.
Verstappen then stuck his middle finger up at Hamilton as the pair exited the first corner.
Speaking during Thursday’s FIA press conference in Mexico, Hamilton called for respect and stressed that F1 drivers are role models for millions of people, including kids, across the world.
“I’ve been here for a long time, it’s not my first rodeo,” Hamilton, who’s currently second in the Drivers’ Standings, said.
“I think at the core of everything, there has to be respect.
“When I think about, and I hear the things that come out of drivers’ mouths, I do think there are kids watching us, and they’re looking to us for inspiration and for guidance.
“There has been a lot of things that have been said, which is definitely not good for young kids that are watching.
“For me, I’m just trying to remain positive and keep calm, and again, just be respectful to the drivers that I am fighting.
“If I have a name in my head of what I think they are, I don’t share that. But it’s pretty easy for me. You laugh it off, and you move forwards,” the seven-time World Champion added.
Heading into the final five grand prix of the 2021 season, Verstappen has a 12-point advantage over Hamilton – and there’s every chance we’ll see more sparks fly in Mexico.
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