F1 Champion Damon Hill Lauds Jos Verstappen’s Perspective…..read more
Max Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, recently described his son as a role model, highlighting his direct and straightforward personality. Jos’s comments earned praise from former F1 world champion Damon Hill, who called Jos a “good dad” in response to his remarks.
Max Verstappen, who made his Formula 1 debut at just 17 years old, has established himself as one of the sport’s most dominant drivers. The Dutchman has won four consecutive drivers’ championships, with Red Bull Racing achieving historic success during his tenure. In the 2023 season, Red Bull secured 21 wins out of 22 races, demonstrating unparalleled dominance.
However, Verstappen’s career has not been without controversy. Known for his candid nature, he often finds himself under scrutiny for his remarks and driving style. In 2024, Verstappen clashed with the FIA and British media, delivering sharp criticisms. His on-track rivalries with drivers such as Lando Norris and George Russell also added to the tension, leading to heated battles that garnered significant attention. Verstappen’s aggressive driving style and refusal to back down from confrontations have sparked debates among fans and experts alike.
Despite the criticism, Jos Verstappen stands firmly by his son’s side. Speaking to Autosport, he defended Max’s demeanor and values, stating, “He’s not arrogant, he’s direct. What is more of a role model? Pretending to be someone you’re not, or openly saying what you think and staying true to your values? That makes me as proud of my son as his sporting achievements.”
Damon Hill reacted positively to Jos’s defense of Max, sharing his admiration on social media. Meanwhile, Max himself remains unapologetic about his approach to racing. Following a tense battle with Norris in 2024, which resulted in penalties, Verstappen made it clear that his focus is on winning, even if it means crossing certain lines. He stated that victory is his priority, emphasizing that he has no regrets about his choices.
Max Verstappen’s remarkable career began with his maiden championship victory in 2021, a triumph marked by the controversial conclusion of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. That moment signaled the start of an extraordinary run, as he successfully defended his title three more times. In the 2024 season, Verstappen faced stiff competition from McLaren, particularly from Lando Norris, who posed a serious threat in the championship battle. However, despite Norris’s strong performance, Verstappen ultimately prevailed.
David Croft, a prominent F1 commentator, expressed his admiration for Verstappen, stating, “Maybe we just have to appreciate that Max Verstappen is a bit of a winner.” Croft’s comments reflect the growing acknowledgment of Verstappen’s sheer determination and relentless drive, qualities that define his racing career.
Max’s success is also closely tied to the influence of Red Bull senior advisor Helmut Marko. Marko, who discovered Verstappen’s talent early on, played a pivotal role in shaping his career. He brought Verstappen into the Red Bull Racing main team as a teenager, a decision that proved transformative for both the driver and the team. Reflecting on Marko’s impact, Verstappen referred to him as a “second father.”
In an interview with RacingNews365, Verstappen shared his thoughts on Marko’s mentorship, saying, “Helmut gave me the opportunity to start in F1 and then also in moving me to the main team. We have lived a lot of positive and bad moments and, of course, tough moments, but our relationship has grown over the years and is very special for me. Helmut is my biggest fan. I don’t even see him like my boss anymore; it is like he is a second father.”
Marko’s unwavering belief in Verstappen’s abilities has been a cornerstone of their relationship. He has supported the Dutchman through both triumphs and challenges, and Verstappen has reciprocated this loyalty. Their bond has been crucial in navigating the pressures of Formula 1 and achieving success at the highest level.
As Verstappen continues to dominate the sport, his journey is marked not only by his record-breaking achievements but also by his unapologetic personality and unwavering commitment to his values. Whether viewed as a controversial figure or an icon, Max Verstappen remains a defining force in modern Formula 1.
