Max Verstappen Ahead Of Title-Deciding Race: 'I'm Treated Differently'; Here's The Full Statement

Max Verstappen has accused The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) stewards of treating him "differently" from other drivers when it comes to the rules on fair racing.

The Red Bull racer's comments could spark debates ahead of the calendar year's final race weekend, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton will go into the race level on points to decide this year’s champion.

Verstappen was handed three different penalties at last weekend's Saudi Arabian Grand Prix for offenses he was deemed to have committed while racing against Hamilton's Mercedes.

"The things that I did in terms of defending, two other guys in terms of racing also did, and they didn't even get a mention or a penalty. So I don't understand, because I thought I was just racing hard. What happened for me didn't deserve any penalty, and clearly, the other two people who did it, they didn't get one, but clearly, it's only me who gets it. Of course, fighting at the front, people are a bit more critical I guess, but for me, I don't understand," Verstappen told Motorsport.com.

The three penalties that Verstappen had received were for overtaking while off the track, for forcing Hamilton off the circuit and for braking in front of him and causing a collision.

The reigning champion won the controversial race at Saudi Arabia and is very much alive to have a shot at a record eighth world title, while Verstappen is aiming to clinch his first trophy. Whoever finishes ahead at Yas Marina will emerge as the world champion of F1 2021.

"At the end of the day, criticism, that's always there. But I think from my side, what is unfair [is] that I am treated differently to other drivers. Clearly, other drivers can get away with it, and I can't. I think that's a bit of a problem here," added Verstappen in the same interview.

When asked if he'll change his approach ahead of the final race, the Dutchman replied, "To be honest, the only thing I ask is that it's fair for everyone, and clearly that's not the case at the moment. But like I said, I don't feel like I was wrong, and clearly, it is not wrong for others, so why should I change when others are allowed to race like that? I think everyone should be allowed to race like that."

The title-deciding race in Abu Dhabi is set to take place Sunday.