(Motorsport News) After Mercedes’ seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton proposed a rule change to curb Red Bull’s dominance, Max Verstappen responded by reminding his old rival that “life is unfair.” Max Verstappen, who has emerged victorious in six out of the eight races held this season, currently holds a substantial 69-point lead over his closest competitor and teammate, Sergio Perez.

As the Austrian Grand Prix at Spielberg’s Red Bull Ring approaches, Red Bull remains unbeaten this year and aims to secure their 10th consecutive triumph. Their remarkable run includes winning 18 out of the last 19 races, placing them a staggering 154 points ahead of Mercedes, who currently occupy second place in the standings.

Hamilton, whose team secured eight consecutive constructors’ titles from 2014 to 2021, expressed his concerns about Red Bull’s significant advantage, suggesting that they might halt the development of the current car to focus on 2024. In an interview with Sky Sports television, the British driver stated, “I think ultimately it’s likely that… by the end of the year, we will probably catch Red Bull, but that’s probably because they are already focusing on next year’s car.”

Hamilton further explained that Red Bull’s substantial lead allows them to forgo any further modifications to the current car. He proposed that the FIA (governing body) should establish a specific date, like August 1, when all teams are permitted to commence development on the next year’s car. This measure would ensure that no team gains an advantage for the upcoming season, as Hamilton expressed his dissatisfaction with any such advantage.

When confronted with Mercedes’ previous period of dominance, Hamilton responded by stating that his team had never shifted their focus to the following year’s car at such an early stage. He expressed the need for a change in the regulations, stating, “It needs to change because that’s why you have dominance for so long, and they keep allowing it to happen.” In the official FIA press conference, Max Verstappen added insult to injury by commenting on Hamilton’s remarks.

In response, the 25-year-old Max Verstappen remarked, “Life is unfair too.” He denied Hamilton his chance at an unprecedented eighth title and Max Verstappen secured his own first championship in 2021 during a contentious finale in Abu Dhabi that continues to generate division within the sport.

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