Hamilton and Verstappen decline racing conduct talks ahead of title showdown

Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have both denied the need for talks over driving conduct ahead of their F1 title showdown in Abu Dhabi this weekend.

Driving standards have dominated headlines from two of the previous three races, with Verstappen's defensive tactics in particular highlighted in Brazil and Saudi Arabia.

A perceived brake test from the Red Bull driver earned him what he called an "unfair" penalty with questions being asked by Verstappen as to why he is racing to different rules from other drivers.

With a spotlight on the championship battle, Verstappen was asked if he was clear what is and isn't allowed in close combat racing, to which he replied: "Clearly for me, there are some different rules for me compared to some other drivers out there.

"I am clear on what I can do, but somehow it is not allowed but is allowed for other drivers."

As to whether he would sit down with Hamilton to discuss conduct ahead of the season-defining event, the Dutchman insisted: "I don't think we need to sit down.

"We are both here to win and we will do, of course, everything to win and win the championship ultimately, whatever is necessary in terms of points.

"We have raced well together for the whole year and we have put on a good show for everyone at the end of the day.

"Hopefully we can do that for everyone here."

Sitting alongside Verstappen, Hamilton was also asked whether he felt the need to discuss racing standards with his rival and commented: "I don't think so.

"As Max mentioned, there are lots of races and lots of good and obviously lots of incidents but I would like to think we have learned from all of these things and can move forwards."

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