17 Year Old Max Verstappen’s Grand Entry Was Harshly Tagged “The Worst Thing Ever For F1”

Two-time world champion Max Verstappen is breaking records and collecting plaudits. However, before his Formula 1 debut with Toro Rosso back in 2014, the teenager received some harsh criticism. Canadian world champion and former driver Jacques Villeneuve branded Verstappen’s early entry into F1 as “the worst thing ever”.

Verstappen has become a household Formula 1 name. Especially in the last couple of years with his back-to-back championships. However, the teenager did not receive a warm welcome to the sport from Villeneuve. The Canadian heavily criticized Red Bull’s decision to let a teenager drive for then-Toro Rosso.

“It is the worst thing ever for Formula 1 because it will have two effects,” said Villeneuve. “It will either destroy him or, even if he is successful right away, then F1 will be meaningless.”

Villeneuve had problems with two aspects. Verstappen’s super license grant and the fact a 17-year-old will be driving in the premier class.

“Getting a Super License should be meaningful, not just doing three hundred kilometers and it being fine. There is something that is flawed there. Basically, it’s like getting all the presents without deserving anything. But there is this thing of ‘the younger, the better’. What’s the next step? A team who will sign someone at 15 just to get the image out of it?” he said.

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The Canadian was extremely critical of Verstappen and his abilities behind a wheel at 17. However, the now Red Bull champion has definitely earned his respect.

Max Verstappen praised by Jacques Villeneuve despite the comments in the past

The reigning world champion might not have been everyone’s first choice at the start of his career. However, his development over the years, especially his performances in the 2022 season, has made everyone a fan. Including Jacques Villeneuve!

Speaking on the F1-nation podcast, the Canadian said, “It was typical Max Verstappen. He is always at a hundred percent. There’s never a dull moment with him. He is always in top form and doesn’t make mistakes. He is a very difficult driver to beat because of that.”

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Safe to say, the Canadian world champion has had a change of heart regarding Verstappen over the years. Although, do you agree that a 17-year-old shouldn’t be driving in Formula 1?