Sebastian Vettel reveals Max Verstappen…. read more
Sebastian Vettel, a four-time Formula 1 world champion, has recently shared insights into his conversations with Max Verstappen as the Dutch driver came close to breaking one of Vettel’s cherished records. Vettel, widely regarded as one of the sport’s legends, is ranked fourth on the all-time list of Grand Prix winners with 53 victories, while Verstappen has surpassed him with 64 wins after his triumph at the Japanese Grand Prix last weekend.
Both drivers have enjoyed remarkably successful periods with the Red Bull Racing team. Vettel’s dominance came between 2010 and 2013 when he secured four consecutive World Championships, while Verstappen has mirrored that success from 2021 to 2024, showcasing exceptional consistency and skill. However, their paths diverged after Vettel’s successful run with Red Bull came to an end in 2014, as the team’s performance started to decline. Following this, Vettel made the bold decision to join Ferrari for the 2015 season, aiming to achieve further success. Although he could not clinch a fifth World Championship, Vettel went on to win 14 races with the Scuderia.
At just 27 years old, Verstappen’s career is still in its prime, and he has already broken several records in Formula 1. His 2023 season stands out as the most successful campaign by any driver in the history of the sport, with Verstappen not only dominating that year but also surpassing Vettel’s record for consecutive race victories. Vettel had set the record for most consecutive wins with nine, achieved in the 2013 season. In 2023, Verstappen shattered this record by winning 10 races in a row.
Vettel recently opened up about the advice he gave to Verstappen during the period when the Dutch driver was on the verge of surpassing him. Speaking to BBC Sportsworld, Vettel explained that they were in contact when Verstappen was poised to break the consecutive wins record. “I was in touch with him when he was about to surpass me,” Vettel shared. “He was at nine wins, and I told him, ‘You’re better than me, I’m sure you’ll do it.’ Verstappen was initially hesitant, saying, ‘I’m not sure, I’m not sure.’ But then, of course, he went on to win 10 straight races! So, I’m pretty sure he can do it.”
Looking at Verstappen’s career trajectory, it’s evident that he is on a remarkable path. Despite his youth, he has already broken numerous records and is widely regarded as one of the best drivers in the sport today. Vettel’s belief in Verstappen’s abilities is further underscored by his acknowledgment of the Dutchman’s potential to dominate for years to come. Having already broken the record for consecutive wins, Verstappen is now focused on his next challenge: securing a fifth World Championship title. If Verstappen achieves this feat, he would join an elite group of drivers, including Michael Schumacher, as one of only two drivers to have won five consecutive World Championships. Moreover, Verstappen would be the first Red Bull driver to reach this milestone.
As the 2025 season unfolds, Verstappen is once again in the hunt for the title, but it appears that he will face tougher competition than in previous years. McLaren, with drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, has made significant strides and is expected to be a serious contender for the championship. After three races, Norris currently leads the standings, but Verstappen is close behind, trailing him by just one point. This season could prove to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, with Verstappen’s pursuit of his fifth title likely to be a key storyline.
Vettel has expressed his confidence that Verstappen is capable of rising to the challenge, saying, “If anyone can do it, he can do it, especially with the championships he has won with Red Bull.” This statement reflects Vettel’s respect for Verstappen’s ability and his belief that the Dutch driver has the potential to further cement his legacy in Formula 1.
In conclusion, Sebastian Vettel’s conversations with Max Verstappen offer a glimpse into the camaraderie and mutual respect between two of the sport’s most successful drivers. While Vettel’s records have been broken, his encouragement and support for Verstappen highlight the strong bond that exists within the F1 community. As Verstappen continues to chase history, his pursuit of a fifth World Championship could mark the next chapter in the ongoing saga of dominance at Red Bull Racing, with Vettel’s words of confidence serving as a testament to the Dutch driver’s extraordinary talent and futu
re potential.
