Red Bull’s Verstappen and Mercedes driver Hamilton go into the winner-takes-all final this weekend in Abu Dhabi with 269.5 points after 21 races.
The pair clashed several times during the highly controversial Saudi Arabia Grand Prix last weekend before Hamilton finally triumphed and pitched a thrilling final race title.
However, Sainz hopes that both drivers will keep their fight fair and avoid a potentially controversial ending to one of the best F1 seasons in years.
“I just wish on my part that they keep it clean last weekend and put on a good showdown – especially for the image of the sport,” said Sainz.
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“For the good of Formula 1, and that we are still a sport, not just a show, and show good sportsmanship and a good showdown in the grand finale.”
Sainz revealed that he was immersed in their struggle as he re-watched the very first F1 race in Jeddah in his room.
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“It’s the ideal scenario for Formula 1 as a sport and it’s super exciting to see,” he said.
“When I got back to my room on Sunday evening, I tuned in and replayed the race just to see what the hell had happened there beforehand and why everyone was talking about what had happened.
“When I had the chance to see it, you noticed how close this fight is, how a fight between the two championship contenders is in every race and how exciting and ideal it is for Formula 1.
“Unfortunately, there’s a lot of polarization on Twitter and social media. A lot, I wouldn’t say the two fans are offended but very polarized and it makes the fight a little less exciting to see the two sides fighting each other so much.
“I think it’s just better to just be a little more neutral, enjoy the fight and let the best man win.”
But Sainz refused to share who he thought deserved the title due to the polarization caused by Verstappen and Hamilton’s rivalry.
“I will not personally comment on who my driver of the season was,” he said.
“Mainly because if I say one thing, one side will criticize me and say ‘No, Lewis has a better car’, if I say Max… it’s too polarized.
“I just don’t want to take a stand because it doesn’t make sense. If you look at how polarized – I repeat myself – it is on social media.
“I think they both had incredible seasons, I think they are both driving at an incredible level.”
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