Max Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 World Champion, has never been one to shy away from expressing his opinions. This year, the Dutch driver made headlines once again—not for his dominance on the track, but for his candid comments about Christmas dinner traditions in the UK.

During a lighthearted interview in the off-season, Verstappen was asked about his festive plans and how they compare to those in Britain. Known for his straightforward demeanor, the Red Bull driver did not hold back when sharing his thoughts on the traditional British Christmas dinner.

“I’ve had it a couple of times while I’ve been in the UK,” Verstappen said with a chuckle. “It’s… okay. But let’s be honest, it’s a bit heavy, isn’t it? All that turkey, stuffing, and those Brussels sprouts! It’s very different from what I’m used to back home.”

The Dutchman went on to explain that in the Netherlands, Christmas meals are often more varied and less centered around a single large dish. “In my family, we’d usually have something like gourmetten, where everyone cooks their own little portions of meat and vegetables at the table. It’s more interactive and social, and you don’t feel like you need a nap afterward!”

While Verstappen’s comments sparked a mix of amusement and debate on social media, they also shed light on the cultural differences in festive traditions. Many fans from the UK were quick to defend their beloved Christmas dinner, pointing out that the hearty meal is part of the charm and warmth of the season. Others, however, agreed with Verstappen, admitting that the iconic meal can indeed be quite indulgent.

Despite his critique, Verstappen was quick to emphasize that he appreciates the British way of celebrating the holidays. “I’ve spent quite a bit of time in the UK, and it’s always nice to see how passionate people are about their traditions. Even if it’s not my favorite meal, I respect the effort that goes into it. And hey, Christmas pudding isn’t bad—as long as you’ve got enough custard!”

As one of Formula 1’s most prominent stars, Verstappen’s comments are sure to keep the conversation about Christmas dinner alive well into the new year. Whether you’re a fan of turkey with all the trimmings or prefer a lighter, continental approach, one thing is certain: the holiday season is all about coming together and enjoying good food—no matter what’s on the menu.