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Four-time Red Bull champion contested promotional action before the British GP and defended the traditional parade with drivers in an open truck.
Max Verstappen, Dutch Red Bull driver, criticized Formula 1’s decision to place competitors in Lego cars during the parade before the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
The promotional action was announced by Formula 1 and Lego on Thursday, July 2, 2026. The proposal is for the 22 drivers to travel the circuit in small cars built with thousands of pieces.
For Verstappen, a four-time world champion, the initiative could affect the professional image of the competitors and make the drivers look like “children and clowns”.
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According to Reuters, the Dutchman made the criticisms in an interview with the broadcaster Viaplay, commenting on the new format chosen for the presentation of the drivers before the race.
Driver prefers traditional Formula 1 parade
Verstappen stated that he prefers the traditional model used by Formula 1 on Grand Prix weekends.
In this format, drivers get on an open truck, take a lap around the circuit, wave to the public, and give interviews for television.
“I prefer to play with Lego at home, with the kids. Not here, to be honest”, said the Red Bull driver to Viaplay.
The Dutchman also said he likes the idea of all competitors being together on the truck more.
According to Verstappen, this format is more fun and conveys a more professional image to the audience following the category.
Action with Lego seeks to bring fans closer to Formula 1
The partnership between Formula 1 and Lego was presented as a way to create a different moment before the British GP.
According to the category, the 22 drivers will participate in the presentation lap in special cars made with the brand’s pieces.
Emily Prazer, commercial director of Formula 1, stated that the initiative aims to show another side of the category.
Furthermore, according to her, the action should create a special spectacle for the fans present at Silverstone and for those following the broadcast.
Similar Experience in Miami Had Collisions
A similar action had already been carried out at the Miami Grand Prix in 2025.
On that occasion, the drivers shared small two-seater cars during the promotional lap before the race.
The moment drew attention because there were minor collisions between the competitors, as well as parts scattered on the track.
This previous experience was cited by Verstappen when criticizing the new action planned for Silverstone.
Criticism Involves Professional Image of Drivers
For Verstappen, Formula 1 needs to preserve the image of the competitors as elite athletes in world motorsport.
“In the end, we are Formula 1 drivers”, stated the four-time champion.
The Dutchman added that drivers should not appear “like children and clowns trying to hit each other”.
Despite the criticism, the promotional action is still scheduled to take place before the British Grand Prix.
The episode shows how entertainment initiatives can divide opinions within Formula 1.
While the category seeks to create more relaxed experiences for fans, some drivers still advocate for a more traditional and professional presentation.
What is at Stake for Formula 1?
The situation exposes an increasingly common debate in the category. On one side, Formula 1 tries to create light, visual moments closer to the public.
On the other, Verstappen argues that certain actions can convey a less professional image of the drivers.
The criticism does not cancel the action but reinforces the tension between entertainment, tradition, and the sporting identity of Formula 1.
Do you think Formula 1 should bet on more fun actions to attract the public or maintain the traditional drivers’ parade? Leave your opinion!
