Singapore GP: War of words between reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff

"I think it’s just important that you focus on your own team. That’s what we do as well. That’s what we did in the past as well when we were behind them and when they were dominating," Verstappen said.

🚨 | Toto Wolff Explains How Close He Was To Signing Max Verstappen Before He Joined Red Bull

“Max was very good in karting, was good in F3, and it was clear that there's a big one that's growing. We talked to them in the initial phases, and it was a nice discussion with (his… pic.twitter.com/EEuqJ79NPJ— el Formula (@elFormulaOne) September 14, 2023 

He added, "And I think you should be able to appreciate when a team is doing really well, which I think we’ve done in the past, because it worked also as a kind of inspiration to see someone that dominant who was very impressive at the time. And we knew that we just had to work harder, try to be better and try to get to that level. And now that we are there, we are very happy of course that we are there and we are enjoying the moment and honestly, that’s all I can say about it."

The qualifying race at the Marina Bay Circuit will take place on September 16 whereas the final race will occur on September 17, with Verstappen aiming to bring an end to his drought in the Singapore GP after having conceded the victory to his teammate Sergio Perez last year.

(With AP inputs)