Verstappen questions Leclerc risk: "It’s a long race"

It was a frustrating day for Max Verstappen at the Japanese Grand Prix as his race came to a premature end, denying Honda a dream race at the Suzuka Circuit. Verstappen has questioned Charles Leclerc's risky move which cost the Dutchman at such an early stage of the race.

Verstappen qualified fifth and made a good getaway off the line but collided with Leclerc at just the second turn of the opening lap. The Dutchman spun out and was forced to retire on lap 15.

Verstappen's frustration was evident after the race and he questioned why Leclerc responded as he did with so much of the race left.

“I had a really good start and I think I was up to third place which was positive. I stayed on the outside at Turn 2 but Charles drove into the side of my car," Max said after the race.

"I guess Charles was trying to recover places after the start but it’s a long race so there was no need to risk so much so early. We both lost out but he managed to carry on once he replaced his front wing.

"I re-joined at the back of the field but my car was severely damaged and we had to retire on Lap 15. 

"It’s very frustrating as I think we had a good chance of being on the podium again especially after such a good start, which would have been amazing for all the Honda fans supporting us. We are definitely improving and the gap is closing but there is still more work to do before Mexico.”