Former Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone believes Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton are bullying Red Bull star Max Verstappen as they battle for the World Championship. Hamilton and Verstappen have won 17 races between them this season, with the Dutchman claiming nine victories to Hamilton’s eight and they head into the finale of the year level on points.

With controversies aplenty, Ecclestone believes Hamilton and Mercedes are playing games with Verstappen. “Max is a kid compared to Lewis and the worst thing is Lewis has a massive publicity campaign working for him,” Ecclestone said.