As the Formula 1 paddock returns to São Paulo's Interlagos circuit, memories resurface of the fierce 2021 title fight between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. The season's climax remains one of the most intense in recent history, with Verstappen ultimately claiming his first championship by overtaking Hamilton on the last lap of the Abu Dhabi finale. São Paulo had its share of the drama too, with both drivers going off track while battling for the lead, a moment emblematic of their heated rivalry that year.

Verstappen’s driving style has recently come under fire, particularly after the Mexican Grand Prix, where he was penalized twice for incidents with McLaren’s Lando Norris. In São Paulo, Hamilton reflected on Verstappen’s approach, noting that little has changed in his style since 2021. Hamilton, who had his own fierce battles with Verstappen back then, indicated that the Red Bull driver’s aggressive maneuvers are consistent with his reputation.

Verstappen defended his approach, pointing out that with a decade in F1, he’s confident in his abilities and won’t be altering his style under criticism. "I think I know what I'm doing," he remarked, addressing his detractors. His recent incidents sparked a post-race meeting in Mexico, which Mercedes’ George Russell described as constructive. Russell, a Grand Prix Drivers' Association director, emphasized that the meeting underscored the importance of consistent officiating, stating that necessary actions were taken.

This backdrop adds tension to the São Paulo Grand Prix, where fans will be watching closely to see if the battle between these rivals continues to echo their 2021 encounters.