Former Formula 1 driver Christijan Albers has identified a concerning aspect of Max Verstappen’s character, specifically regarding his public criticism of Red Bull Racing. Albers, known for his direct commentary, believes Verstappen’s bluntness towards his team has become excessive during the challenging 2026 season.
The Dutch analyst’s remarks follow Verstappen’s frustrated radio messages during the recent Hungarian Grand Prix. Verstappen was heard complaining that his RB22 car was ‘completely ed’ and expressed significant issues with downshifts throughout the race weekend.
Despite these vocal complaints, Verstappen managed to secure a second-place finish in Hungary, starting from fourth on the grid. He later admitted to the media that he was ‘shocked’ by the result, questioning how he ended up on the podium given the car’s performance.
Albers, typically a staunch supporter of Verstappen, stated that while he appreciates the driver’s honesty, his relentless mentality is now creating a downside. He suggests Verstappen’s focus on himself might lead him to overlook the efforts of the wider team.
The 2026 Formula 1 season has proven difficult for Red Bull, which is running its own power unit for the first time. Verstappen currently sits sixth in the drivers’ standings, 110 points behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli after the Hungarian Grand Prix.
Albers highlighted that approximately 700 people at the Red Bull factory are working towards Verstappen’s desired direction. He believes the ongoing public commentary from the cockpit is not beneficial for the team’s morale or progress.
The former F1 driver also referenced Adrian Newey’s departure from Red Bull last year, underscoring the significant task Verstappen is demanding from the Milton Keynes outfit. Albers argues that Verstappen should be publicly defending Red Bull, rather than criticising them.
Sky Sports F1 commentator David Croft has also weighed in on Verstappen’s radio outbursts. Croft questioned whether the frustrated messages from the Hungarian Grand Prix were a deliberate strategy to facilitate a potential exit from Red Bull.
Speculation has linked Verstappen with a move to McLaren, particularly given that his contract with Red Bull, which runs until the end of 2028, includes an exit clause that could be activated at the close of the current season.
Albers has a history of offering candid assessments of drivers. Earlier in the 2026 season, he criticised George Russell, suggesting the Mercedes driver was ‘too soft’ in wheel-to-wheel battles against competitors like Kimi Antonelli and Lando Norris.
