** Max Verstappen criticizes Franco Colapinto live, but the Argentine’s reaction forces him to apologize **
In a weekend loaded with emotions at the Grand Prix of Emilia-Romaña, an unexpected controversy between Max Verstappen and Franco Colapint viral. However, the ingenious and bold response of Colapint not only surprised fans, but also led Verstappen to issue a public apology.
The incident occurred when Colapinto, in its official debut with Alpine, activated the DRS (resistance reduction system) on the main line, despite the fact that both cars were with full tanks, an unusual practical strategy. Verstappen, who tried to overcome it, exclaimed by radio: “What is this guy doing? Using his Drs!”, With a tone that many interpreted as derogatory, including the phrase “How fool it is!” that resonated among the spectators. The official transmission captured the moment, and social networks, especially Argentine fans, soon reacting, defending their compatriot with fervor.
Far from being silent, Colapinto responded with a mixture of humor and confidence that left everyone speechless. In a later interview with ESPN, the 21 -year -old pilot commented: “If Max thinks I’m dumb, that he comes to tell me on my face. Meanwhile, I will continue running as I know.” This replica, loaded with charisma and security, won the applause of the fans and put Verstappen in an awkward position. In the networks, the users celebrated the challenging attitude of Colapinto, with comments such as: “He is Argentine, undisciplined, said Francisco!” In reference to a phrase of the Pope.
The media pressure and the massive support to Colapinto led Verstappen to issue a public apology the next day. In a press conference, the Dutch clarified: “My words were taken from context. I didn’t want to offend Franco, he is a great pilot and is doing incredible job. It was only a moment of heat on the track.” This statement calmed the waters, but did not turn off the enthusiasm for the performance of the Argentine, who finished 13th in the second practice, only 475 thousandths of his partner Pierre Gasly.
The episode not only highlighted the emerging talent of Colapinto, but also showed its ability to handle pressure and respond with intelligence to a figure like Verstappen. With his return to Formula 1 after being a substitute, Pilar’s young man is demonstrating that he is not afraid to face the greats. This crossing in Isola, far from being a simple touch, has consolidated Colapint as a name to follow, while Argentine fans already dream of seeing him shine in Monaco.
