Bernd Maylander says Lewis Hamilton and former F1 champion were ‘worst for whinging’ behind the Safety Car

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Behind the Safety Car, Formula 1 drivers have a job to do – keeping tyre and brake temperatures up so they’re ready for action when racing resumes.

That’s why you’ll often see drivers weaving, braking and accelerating – it’s all about being in the best possible shape when the green flag drops.

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It’s a routine that’s easy to get wrong, whether by breaking the 10-car length rule or making a prohibited pass.

Red Bull protested George Russell’s win in Canada recently, arguing he acted unsportsmanlike behind the Safety Car, but the stewards dismissed the claim.

Bernd Maylander, who’s been driving the Safety Car for over two decades, shared his thoughts on the drivers who have complained most about his pace during those phases.

Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel worst for whinging, says Safety Car driver

“Immediately, I would say Sebastian [Vettel] and Lewis [Hamilton]. But I don’t blame them for it,” he told The Telegraph.

Both Hamilton and Vettel have regularly voiced frustration over the radio about the Safety Car’s speed. Hamilton, for example, once came close to rear-ending the Safety Car during the 2016 British Grand Prix at Copse corner.

But while he called out their complaints, Maylander added: “There’s nothing wrong with it. I always try to give as much information as I can.

“Also, we have the direct radio connection with Race Control and sometimes we get the information, ‘Wait, don’t let them go too early, because there is still something happening.’”

Maylander has led more than 1,400 laps since taking over the role full-time in 2000. Silverstone this year will mark his 492nd Formula 1 race behind the wheel of the Safety Car.

Maylander recalls his craziest moment as Safety Car driver

Maylander has seen a lot in his time, but one incident stands out: the 2003 British Grand Prix, when a defrocked priest ran onto the track.

“I didn’t believe Herbie [Blash, FIA deputy race director] when he came on the radio and said there was a guy running on the track,” Maylander recalled.

“But I went out, saw him and then the marshals jumped on him. Absolutely crazy.”

Between the odd moments and the routine complaints, Maylander remains a steady presence in Formula 1’s unpredictable world – and doesn’t hold a grudge against those who have voiced frustration over the years.