‘He Was So Strict with Me’ – Max Verstappen Recounts ‘Harsh’ Upbringing Enroute to F1

Max Verstappen wrapped up his 2020 season with a formidable win at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver drove a strong race and finished around 25 seconds ahead of Valtteri Bottas at P2. He was so comfortable during the race, he even joked about reducing the power during the last leg of the race.

Verstappen was consistently splitting the Silver Arrows this season; he was the only driver who was putting them under some pressure. After the season ended, we got to take a sneak peek into the Dutch driver‘s personal life.

In an interview with G-Star RAW, Max Verstappen talked about his childhood and strict upbringing. The interviewer asked whether it is hard to be true to oneself and stay grounded in this world. “Not with the way I was brought up,” replied Verstappen.

“How was that?” asked the interviewer.

“Harsh.

“When it comes to racing. Strict, yes. I had to take it seriously. Otherwise, he [Jos Verstappen] would have quit. I really had to give it all while other kids were playing.”

ALSO READ – When Jos Gave Max Verstappen a Brutal ‘Wakeup Call’ for ‘Driving Like a Potato’

Max Verstappen on his sacrifices

To be at the pinnacle of anything, an individual has to go through a lot of hard work and sacrifices. Max Verstappen had it no different. However, the young Dutch loved racing. So, he had to sacrifice some things, even if they didn’t feel like sacrifices at the moment.

He said, “Sometimes I would also have liked to play Football on Saturdays, you know? But in the end I’m very happy that he [Jos Verstappen] was so strict with me.”

However, he also clarified that it was not all dramatic, as his father recognized his talent and helped him realize the same.

Verstappen put up a strong fight with Valtteri Bottas for the P2 position, missing out by a difference of mere 9 points. However, the Red Bull driver is certain that he will claim that P2 position next season. Hopefully, with Sergio Perez‘s inclusion, Red Bull will be back to fighting for the constructors’ championship in 2021.