What makes Max Verstappen the Gold standard in F1 racing?

Max Verstappen is a unique skill, as everyone who has seen him work, crunching the information away from the spotlight and behind the scenes knows. His unwavering concentration, innate talent, and grounded demeanor have established him as the standard for Formula 1 in the current age.

In an interview with RacingNews365 last week, Peter Bayer, the CEO of Racing Bulls, the Red Bull junior team, recently offered his thoughts on Verstappen's remarkable traits. A unique look into the Dutch driver's mindset on and off the track was provided by Bayer, who is in charge of the development program that formerly cultivated Verstappen during his time at Toro Rosso.

Verstappen was praised profusely by Bayer, who called him the ideal role model for today's drivers, “He was the best in karting and entered Formula 1 at just 17 years old. Max even managed to change the rules around the super licence, which speaks volumes about his impact on the sport.”

When considering Max Verstappen's 2024 season, Bayer commended his tenacity in a year when the car was less dominating and the competition was more fierce. With an incredible victory in Las Vegas, Verstappen won the championship two races ahead of schedule, securing his fourth title. 

Max Verstappen motivates the next generations of drivers

Bayer's observations highlight the exceptional blend of skill, determination, and modesty that characterizes Max Verstappen. Verstappen has, in Bayer's opinion, improved the sport to the same degree as the greats who came before him, including Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel, and Fernando Alonso. 

Verstappen is the standard-bearer for the current age, setting a level that will motivate the next generations of drivers as Formula 1 continues to change on all fronts. Early in March, the 27-year-old Dutchman will compete in the Australian Grand Prix in an attempt to win his fifth Formula One world championship.