Max Verstappen warned of 'damage' over robust F1 approach

Former F1 driver Martin Brundle has stated Max Verstappen is “doing damage” to the sport through his continued criticism of the new cars.

The four-time champion has not held back in the early stage of the year when delivering his assessment of the challengers.

The heavy increase in energy management has stripped Verstappen of his enjoyment for the sport, leading him to suggest he could walk away at the end of the season.

But Brundle has suggested that Verstappen's exit would not leave a void on the grid.

“Nobody is indispensable in this business,” he told Sky F1. 

“I've seen a number of amazing people come through this sport and no longer with us, or moved on and done something else.

“The sport carries on. The great Murray Walker would be one of them. And this goes for any of us. 

“The minute we stop, people will be talking about whoever's doing the job next.”

The 66-year-old's words echo the thoughts of Johnny Herbert, who suggested current championship leader Kimi Antonelli could be the successor to Verstappen's imposing presence on the grid.

Brundle stated F1 will easily move on should Verstappen decide to depart - but warned the Dutchman against doing damage to the sport's reputation on his way out.

“There are any number of Antonellis, Bearmans, Lindblads out there who would do the job incredibly well for 1 per cent of the money.

“So the sport will just move on if Max decides to go. He's sort of doing quite a lot of damage, meanwhile.

“We all appreciate that's how Max rocks and rolls.”