Montoya pulls no punches on Martin Brundle: 'He never liked me, the feeling is mutual'

Just a few weeks earlier, Montoya had already sparked debate with his comments about Verstappen's criticism of Formula 1's regulations. Appearing on the BBC's Chequered Flag podcast, the former Williams and McLaren driver argued that repeated public criticism of the sport should carry consequences, going as far as suggesting that Verstappen should receive penalty points on his super licence for his remarks.

Montoya's remarks appeared to irritate the Dutchman, who responded strongly when asked about the comments by De Telegraaf. Verstappen dismissed the criticism, saying he had little interest in the opinions of someone he believes frequently makes unfounded remarks, while also questioning why figures who regularly make such comments are given a platform through Formula 1-related media work: “I don’t know what his problem is. I also don't care much for someone who talks so much nonsense. I just don’t understand why types like that get paid by the management of Formula 1, as he sometimes works for them.”

The exchange between Brundle and Montoya took place during the grid walk in Montreal, when the Sky Sports reporter pointed out that he had managed to upset Verstappen with his comments. The Colombian brushed off the suggestion with a brief but telling "Anything new?"

Speaking to a betting site afterwards, the Colombian played down any suggestion of a feud with Verstappen, insisting there is no bad blood between them despite the controversy. Montoya explained that they have spoken on several occasions at race weekends and have always maintained a good relationship, even if they do not interact regularly. He added that his comments about drivers publicly criticising Formula 1 were not aimed solely at Verstappen, but reflected a broader belief that competitors in any sport should face consequences for repeatedly speaking negatively about the championship.

Speaking to a betting site, Montoya revisited the exchange and revealed that Brundle had approached him on the Montreal grid to point out Verstappen's reaction to his comments. The Colombian also acknowledged a long-standing lack of chemistry between the two: “Martin Brundle, who has never liked me, and the feeling is mutual, got me on the grid. “He said: ‘I see you have p***ed off Max’. I replied: ‘Nothing new there.'”

Another controversy that has generated buzz online in recent days also involved the Dutchman, although this time it stemmed from comments made by Guenther Steiner. Verstappen's GT racing team-mate Dani Juncadella has publicly disagreed with him after the former Haas team principal took aim at the Dutchman's criticism of Formula 1's current regulatory direction. Steiner argued that Verstappen's views are heavily influenced by results, suggesting that had the Red Bull driver won the Canadian Grand Prix, he would likely have been praising the current rules and describing them as the 'best regs ever'.

Juncadella, however, rejected that interpretation, insisting that Verstappen has consistently voiced concerns about the sport's future regulations for several years, long before Red Bull's competitive advantage began to fade. The Spanish driver defended Verstappen's position, arguing that his views on the matter have remained unchanged regardless of the results he has achieved on track.

“(The) guy has warned everyone about the new regs since 2023 but the head of the consortium that acquired the Tech3 MotoGP team knows better,” he wrote.