Damon Hill criticizes Red Bull's reaction to Verstappen critiques

Dominika Jordan
Feb 28, 2025, 05:27 AM ET

Damon Hill criticizes Red Bull’s sensitivity to criticism of Max Verstappen’s aggressive racing tactics.

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

Former world champion and ex-Sky Sports pundit Damon Hill has criticized Red Bull for their inability to handle criticism aimed at their star driver, Max Verstappen. Hill asserted that Red Bull "cry about it" whenever pundits speak critically of Verstappen's racing style.

Ex-champion Damon Hill: Red Bull can’t handle criticism of Verstappen.

Hill has not been shy in voicing his opinions on Verstappen's aggressive tactics. A notable incident occurred during the Mexico City Grand Prix, where Verstappen's move on Lando Norris earned him two separate 10-second penalties. Hill likened Verstappen to the cartoon villain Dick Dastardly on Sky Sports.

Red Bull frequently accuses Sky Sports of an anti-Verstappen bias. Jos Verstappen, Max's father, has also criticized certain Sky pundits for their perceived partiality. Hill, however, remains outspoken. "Red Bull fight their corner very forcefully, and they don't like criticism of Max," Hill told The Telegraph.

Referencing another controversial moment from last year in Austin, Hill commented on Verstappen's rule-bending overtake on Norris, which went unpenalized at the time. Hill contested that while the move was within the rules, it exemplified Verstappen pushing boundaries that other drivers might not. "If someone was to do it to him, he'd cry like a baby," Hill remarked.

Despite his criticism, Hill insisted he harbors no personal animosity toward Verstappen. "I'm not anti-Max," said Hill. "I think Max is brilliant. But when he overstepped the mark, I said so. Red Bull needs to acknowledge when their driver crosses the line."

Hill also addressed accusations of British bias against Verstappen in the media. "It's unfair to suggest anti-Dutch sentiment," he stated, emphasizing that Sky Sports aims to provide fair coverage of the sport.

Sky Sports has not specified why Hill is no longer part of their team, but in their 2025 lineup announcement, they expressed gratitude for his 13 years of contribution. "We thank Damon Hill for 13 incredible years with the Sky Sports F1 team," the broadcaster said, commending his insight and passion for the sport.

Hill remains firm in his belief that Red Bull's reactions to critiques reflect a deeper unwillingness to accept scrutiny. "It's disappointing they want to be seen as the tough guys, but can't take the heat when things don't go their way," he concluded.