Memories fade but facts always remain. The best way to keep track of such facts is with data and in the sporting world, some facts are boast-worthy. Max Verstappen has been after such records ever since his incredible 2021 season. He built on that with his record 15-race win season in 2022. Many wouldn’t have pegged the Dutchman to take it up a notch in 2023, but that is exactly what he is doing while proving his doubters wrong. Despite his desire to cement his name in the F1 history books, as exposed by Helmut Marko, Verstappen portrayed a different side of him while discussing his current run to Sebastian Vettel‘s record.

The Red Bull man is on course of breaking F1’s longest win streak by a driver. He is already up to eight and would equal Vettel’s record if he wins the Dutch GP. Another win and Verstappen will have the record all to himself. However, in his recent interview, as revealed on Twitter, Verstappen isn’t focusing on records and just taking it one race at a time.

“I think after like 5 wins in a row or something like that, Seb texted me, you know ‘well done, what you’re doing at the moment, keep it up’ and something like ‘you’re going to do it’,” he said. The Dutchman continued, “I never thought I will be able to be already on eight. I mean, if it’s possible tomorrow of course I’ll go for it, but it’s not something I have in the back of my head, constantly like ‘I need to do this, I need to do this’.”

“I’m not in this sport to try and break records. I’m just here to win in the moment,” Verstappen concluded.

Read More: Red Bull’s Helmut Marko Picks Two Stand-Out Moments From Max Verstappen’s Record-Breaking Season: “He’s From Another Planet”

Verstappen might have the blinders on as he cruises towards his third championship in as many years. However, Marko’s ban on Verstappen showcases how the Dutchman always has an eye for other racing competitions and records.

Dr. Helmut Marko exposes the competitive side of Max Verstappen while banning him from attempting a record lap

Verstappen has made it evident after his 2028 season, he will probably leave F1 to compete in other racing competitions. His heart is set on endurance racing competitions and one of the most prestigious ones in the genre is the 12 Hours of the Nürburgring Nordschleife.

Red Bull used one of their old challengers on the legendary track to represent the circus. However, their star man wasn’t given the opportunity to drive. In fact, Dr. Helmut Marko banned Verstappen from the event for one reason, a reason Verstappen will deny till the very end.

“We all know Max [Verstappen]. First, he would have checked what the record was. Of course, he wouldn’t want to beat that just by a second. Those cars aren’t suited for chasing records. It’s too dangerous,” said Marko.

Even though Marko always protects his favorite driver, he had to expose this trait for him for the sake of his safety.

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Perhaps in the future, when Verstappen isn’t racing in the premier class he will get a shot at this record. Until 2028 though, no dangerous games for the Dutchman.