Jos sets the record straight on Max Verstappen abandonment rumors

Jos Verstappen has finally opened up and revealed the truth about the rumors which were brewing surrounding him abandoning his son Max Verstappen at a gas station while he was a child. Following an argument, it was reported that the former four-time world champion and Formula 1 driver left Max in a petrol-station while he was a teenager.  

The incident occurred while the father and son duo were driving back from the South of Italy, Jos Verstappen left his son and drove off. This story was confirmed later in the year 2022 by the Red Bull driver. The argument specifically was on the mistake that the Red Bull driver made while he was in a karting race, resulting in him losing the race.  

During an interaction with ESPN, Max said, “I basically threw everything away. Of course, I was very sad and upset with myself for making that mistake. I then started to try to talk to him afterwards in the van, trying to travel home for 17 hours. He didn’t want to talk to me. At one point, he was just so fed up with it and said: ‘Get out’. He stopped at the fuel station. He was like: ‘You get out’. And then he drove off." 

Also Read: Jos Verstappen sees Michael Schumacher’s qualities in his son Max

I didn't leave him there - Jos Verstappen

There were several rumors which began to come up based on this incident. This also raised several questions on the kind of relationship the father and son shared, also raising questions on his upbringing. But, it was always seen that these questions were always defended by Max Verstappen. Jos claimed that the way Max was brought up have helped him face difficulties in his life alongside dealing with his life in Red Bull. He also believed that it was high time to clear the rumors and the questions raised on him.  

In another interaction with F1-Insider, Jos said, “I think it’s time to clear up that story. The truth is: I didn’t leave him there. I just didn’t speak to him for a week.” 

"Was that too harsh? Not according to Max. He also felt that my attitude had prepared him better for Formula 1. That's why dealing with Helmut Marko, who is also known as an extremely tough guy, didn't bother him anymore. He also appreciates the fact that we kept training with the kart on dry tyres on a wet track. I only sense gratitude from him when it comes to his childhood with me,” Jos Verstappen further added.