Red Bull appear to have aimed a subtle dig at Lewis Hamilton after the Ferrari star criticised Max Verstappen's radio communications with his race engineer.
The Formula One team posted celebratory photos of Verstappen with engineer Gianpiero Lambiase following Hamilton's comments about their relationship.
Hamilton had called out the reigning champion for the "abuse" his engineer has taken during their communications, while defending his own exchange with Ferrari engineer Riccardo Adami during the Australian Grand Prix.
The 2025 Formula One season began in Melbourne last week, with McLaren's Lando Norris taking first place ahead of Verstappen.
Lewis Hamilton hit out at Max Verstappen and Red Bull appear to have responded
Reuters
Hamilton finished 10th in his Ferrari debut, where viewers noticed tension in his communications with new race engineer Adami.
The seven-time world champion was heard asking to be left alone during the race, prompting criticism from fans.
This marked a contrast to Hamilton's previously successful 12-season relationship with Mercedes race engineer Peter Bonnington.
Speaking to reporters in China, Hamilton defended his exchange with Adami, saying: "Everyone over-egged [the situation]. It was literally just a back-and-forth. I was very polite in how I suggested it."
"I said 'leave it to me, please'. I wasn't saying 'F-you', I wasn't swearing," he added.
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Hamilton then pointed to Verstappen's communications, stating: "The conversations that Max has had with his engineer over the years and the abuse that the poor guy has taken, and you never write about it."
Red Bull's response came swiftly after Hamilton's comments went viral online.
The team posted a series of photos showing Verstappen and Lambiase celebrating their triumphs together.
The timing of the post appeared deliberate, highlighting the successful partnership that has delivered four consecutive Drivers' Championship titles.
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Max Verstappen came under fire from Lewis Hamilton
Reuters
Despite their occasional heated exchanges over team radio, Verstappen and Lambiase have maintained a productive working relationship.
Their success stands in contrast to Hamilton's early challenges with his new Ferrari team.
Fans were quick to notice Red Bull's apparent response to Hamilton's criticism.
One supporter commented: "Red bull admin you know exactly what you're doing after the Lewis Hamilton comment!"
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The relationship between Verstappen and Lambiase has been characterised by Red Bull team principal Christian Horner as that of an "old married couple."
This description acknowledges their occasional heated exchanges whilst highlighting the strong bond that has underpinned their championship success.
Their partnership continues to flourish despite the radio tensions Hamilton referenced.
