Numerous qualities define a Formula 1 driver, from sharp reflexes and physical endurance to the ability to perform under intense, relentless pressure. While all drivers perform at a high level on the grid, some stand out in some areas. It’s clear for Max Verstappen.
When given the chance to choose between his current grid rivals, in an exclusive interview with Mundo Deportivo, the Dutchman was clear about who impressed him most. Here’s the deal: only two drivers made the cut.
Max Verstappen had twenty options, yet only two earned his nod
In his eleventh season in Formula 1, Max Verstappen has raced alongside – and battled with – his grid rivals long enough to know their strengths and weaknesses. Over the years, the Dutchman has lined up next to big names such as Sebastian Vettel, Jenson Button, and Kimi Räikkönen. Alas, in a ‘rapid fire’ game, Verstappen couldn’t choose from his past rivals.
The game challenged Verstappen to pick the best qualifier, the best racer, the smartest on-track thinker, the best overtaker, and the strongest defender. The Dutchman could choose from any current driver, except himself.
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The answer to all those questions? Either Charles Leclerc or Fernando Alonso. Max Verstappen chose the Monegasque as the best qualifier and overtaker, and the Spaniard as the best defender, the one with the best mentality, as well as the best racer on Sundays. Verstappen glorified Fernando’s Sundays:
“I’ve always liked to, also in the past, watch Fernando Alonso race. He’s a true fighter. I like that a lot.”
Verstappen answered with certainty, consistently pointing to these two grid competitors. The Red Bull star had an answer to every question, except one.
Verstappen won’t settle the “all-time great” question
Verstappen is Formula 1’s latest diamond – easily recognised as one of the best drivers in recent history, if not of all time. An all-rounded driver, who in this game, couldn’t nominate himself as the best. Not that he seemed to want to.
Safe to say, his answer won’t end the “all-time great” debacle. The Dutchman explained:
“For me, it’s impossible to say. There are so many great drivers from different eras. I think it’s more important to appreciate all the good drivers who have existed.”
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True to form, Verstappen kept his answer simple. He avoided crowning one specific driver and chose to recognise the talents that have graced the grid over time. The Red Bull star may have sidestepped the question, but for fans, the debate is far from over. Who is the best driver in the history of Formula 1?
