Max Verstappen Defends Sim Racing Amidst Helmut Marko’s Ban Claims: ‘I Know What Is Best

Max Verstappen challenges Helmut Marko’s assertion about a sim racing prohibition: 'I understand what works best for me.'

"I don't have to dictate how others spend their personal time on weekends, and the same applies to me."

Max Verstappen has addressed Helmut Marko's statement, explaining that he is not prohibited from participating in sim racing events prior to Formula 1 races.

Max Verstappen faced considerable scrutiny for taking part in a virtual 24-hour race at Spa-Francorchamps during the time of the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The driver from the Netherlands ended the race at the Hungaroring in fifth place and frequently expressed his frustrations over team radio throughout the 70 laps.

Nico Rosberg, the 2016 Formula 1 champion, expressed doubts about Verstappen's choice to stay awake until the early hours. Rosberg disclosed that Verstappen didn't go to bed until 3 a.m. after participating in a simulation race.

Prior to the Belgian Grand Prix, Marko announced that Verstappen would cease participating in any races on the eve of an F1 grand prix.

During an interview on Thursday at Spa, where Crash.net was present in the paddock, Verstappen clarified that he is not prohibited from participating in sim racing.

"We discussed the situation, and I reassured him by saying, 'There's no need to be concerned; there aren't any more races on the schedule'," he stated.

However, I don't have any restrictions. Just as I don't dictate how they should spend their weekends, I also enjoy the same freedom.

Verstappen carried on defending sim racing well into the night, mentioning that "it's nothing new."

The triple world titleholder delivered an outstanding performance at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, despite having participated in a different virtual 24-hour race just the previous day.

"I was racing until 3am, which is a usual thing for me and holds significant importance in my life," he mentioned. "There aren't any other upcoming sim races, so there's no need for concern about that. However, it's always when you lose that you hear excuses like, 'You stayed up until 3am,' or, 'You're a kilo heavier.'"

“There are always excuses you can come up with when you lose a race, but take Imola for instance—I won both races there. This isn't new to me; I've been racing since 2015, so my preparation remains consistent.”

"I've claimed three world titles, so I believe I have a solid grasp of my capabilities and limitations. I consistently hold myself to a high standard regarding what is permissible, and with my extensive experience in Formula 1, I am confident in my understanding of what works best."

Verstappen holds a 76-point lead over Lando Norris as they approach the last race before the summer hiatus.

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