The world champion called into question critics’ arguments that it was boring, arguing their success should be appreciated because he and the team were delivering on such a high level and that “real fans” would understand that. Verstappen was speaking before this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix, coming on the back of Red Bull’s first defeat of the season in Singapore. Red Bull have still only been beaten twice in the last 26 races, the previous time being last year’s Brazilian Grand Prix. If people can’t appreciate that, then you are not a real fan. Verstappen cantered to the title last season and has been even more in control this year. “We all know one insect that is very famous, and it’s the bee, and the bee is yellow and black,” he said.

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