Verstappen replies to Hamilton’s “he has a problem” remark: “We all had a laugh”

The rivalry between the Red Bull and Mercedes drivers will ramp up in the F1 2023 season, particularly if Hamilton has a car capable of challenging for Verstappen’s championship.

The personal history between them will also come under the microscope again.

• FIRST LOOK: Red Bull unveil F1 2023 livery in New York launch
• Explained: The ins-and-out of Red Bull's F1 deal with Ford

Verstappen was asked about Hamilton’s comment, when the Mercedes driver said: "People like to talk about there being problems between Max and me. I respect him. 

“He is a lot younger, so maybe he has a problem with me. But I am not sure about that and I actually assume not. Although I can't speak for him."

Verstappen’s response was: "I don’t have an issue with anyone. We all sat at that dinner in Abu Dhabi [for Sebastian Vettel’s retirement] and we all had a laugh with everyone, we all had a good time. So that's okay."

Verstappen addressed Hamilton’s possible return to the title battle: "From our side we can do better because in qualifying, most of the time [last year] we were not the quickest car. For the sport, everyone wants a title battle with multiple teams involved."

Red Bull launched their RB19 car for the 2023 season in New York, which they hope will power Verstappen to a third consecutive title.

Hamilton and George Russell's W14 will be launched by Mercedes on February 15.