Verstappen needed “fire” of Lambiase’s messages to reach best F1 levels

The pair’s exchanges became the subject of regular focus in a season starved of alternative narratives overall thanks to Red Bull’s crushingly dominant position at the head of the pecking order. 

When Autosport asked the world champion about their relationship in an exclusive interview, Verstappen said he appreciated Lambiase’s often cutting tone. 

“It’s how the relationship works,” Verstappen explained. “I would be very, not…