Max Verstappen’s “120%” Magic Makes F1 Legend Induct Him Into F1’s Hall of Fame

In the world of Formula 1, where every lap holds the promise of making history, a certain young Dutchman is rewriting the narrative. Max Verstappen, the 26-year-old Red Bull racing prodigy, has become a legend in his own right as he wins his third consecutive championship. But what sets him apart? It’s not just his title wins or the controversies that surround them. It’s a unique blend of skill, dedication, and an unrelenting commitment to giving his all on the track.

Max Verstappen has always been a name synonymous with excellence in Formula 1. The signs of greatness were evident from the moment he burst onto the scene in 2015, becoming the youngest debutant in the sport’s history at just 17. The early challenges in his rookie season, including multiple retirements, only served to showcase his resilience. Outscoring his Toro Rosso teammate Carlos Sainz, 49 – 18 by the end of the season, was a testament to his skills. And now a Formula 1 legend has included Max Verstappen amongst one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport.

Gerhard Berger appreciates Max Verstappen for always going above and beyond

Fast forward to the present, and the Dutchman stands as the third-highest race winner in Formula 1, a position only overshadowed by the indomitable Lewis Hamilton and the legendary Michael Schumacher. It’s not just the wins; it’s the manner in which Verstappen has consistently outperformed his peers. His journey, dotted with dominance over teammates and a relentless pursuit of excellence, mirrors the trajectories of many Formula 1 racing icons.

Formula 1 legend Gerhard Berger, in a recent interview with the Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung, drew parallels between Verstappen and the legends of the sport. “For Formula 1, the winter break has just begun. The fans have witnessed an outstanding Max Verstappen, who has broken the record this year with his 19 victories in 22 races. Is he going to take a look back at this unique season? Never in my life! Max is a racer who always gives 120 percent. Just like Senna or Schumacher used to be or Hamilton is now,” said Gerhard Berger.

“I’m convinced that Max is already back in the simulator playing with all his race cars,” he suggested. “He simply lives with every fiber of his body for his sport, for Formula 1. That’s his passion, that’s why I think he’s the world’s best racing driver of all time.“

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Max Verstappen is quite close to replicating what Sebastian Vettel achieved with Red Bull; 4 championships in a row. So how does the Dutchman think about Vettel and his time at the Milton-Keynes squad and did he take inspiration from the German?

Sebastian Vettel influenced Max Verstappen’s F1 career

In a recent revelation on the Talking Bulls podcast, Verstappen opened up about the profound impact Vettel’s consecutive championships with Red Bull had on his own aspirations. Vettel’s dominance during those years ignited a spark in Verstappen, a desire to etch his name alongside the greats on the championship trophy.

Verstappen reminisced, “I remember of course when it was still around the Seb [Vettel] years. And you see that he’s holding the trophy, and that is something really impressive – you only think it would be quite cool if you had your own name on it. And then now you see it three times on there with all these other great drivers, it’s cool. I mean, I can’t complain!” The admiration between the two champions is mutual. Vettel has also acknowledged Verstappen’s flawless season, recognizing his talent and consistency in dominating the sport.

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Will Max Verstappen equal Vettel’s record of securing 4 consecutive titles with Red Bull in 2024? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below.