Hulkenberg deeply moved by Verstappen's gesture after historic first F1 podium

It was far from a straightforward race for Verstappen. Battling an unpredictable Red Bull and a bold setup choice, he crossed the line in fifth. But rather than showing frustration or disappointment, the four-time world champion was full of praise for Hulkenberg—a gesture that spoke volumes about the mutual respect between the two drivers.

“He was the first guy to get out of the car who came,” Hulkenberg recounted after the race in conversation with Viaplay. “We go way back from karting days when we were teenagers basically. I have a lot of respect for him, for what he does and what he stands for. He's a great human being.”

Verstappen referred to Hulkenberg's podium as ‘the only positive’ from his F1 race at Silverstone.

On Instagram, he shared a photo with the 37-year-old German, who finished third after starting in P19, with the caption: “Very tough and difficult race for me, but big congrats to Nico on his podium, really happy for you.”

The German driver responded to the post: “Thanks champ!” as Verstappen also emphasized how happy he was for his friend in a comment on a post by the Sauber driver.