Verstappen says 'no' to racing in virtual F1 grands prix

Max Verstappen will not compete in any esports competition running the official Formula 1 game.

When the F1 Virtual Bahrain Grand Prix was announced, fans instantly assumed both Red Bull star Verstappen and McLaren's Lando Norris would compete.

The two are known to frequent esports competitions and have even raced as teammates in several endurance events.

But Norris and Williams' rookie Nicolas Latifi were the only F1 drivers involved.

Despite F1 to continue with its virtual grand prix programme, Verstappen said: "No, I will not participate."

Verstappen told Ziggo Sports. "That is especially because I have never tried that game before. It takes days to understand it a little better, and I don't want to deal with it at the moment."

Verstappen is more familiar with a different simulator software and so will compete in other esports events after recently signing with the successful Team Redline.

"I also have my hands full with the other virtual races," added Verstappen.

"For me, it would not be the right thing to switch between games all the time. I always race to win, and I don't want to be at the back. I'd rather not race at all."

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