Since the older era of F1 ended in the early 90s, there’s always been a lingering question: “Who’s the next Ayrton Senna?” Fans always will keep on debating with likes the Michael Schumacher & Lewis Hamilton surpassing Senna’s records big time. While these modern-day legends have certainly etched their name alongside the late 3-time champion, Today, we may put Max Verstappen on the same pedestal as well. A few years ago, this comparison would have raised eyebrows. Today, it’s the reality that is silencing critics.

Max Verstappen’s performance in the 2023 Formula 1 season has been nothing short of extraordinary. A series of dominating wins and an unprecedented level of control on the track have drawn comparisons to the late, great Ayrton Senna. This is more than just idle speculation, as Verstappen’s performance metrics speak for themselves.

Max Verstappen, the 25-year-old Dutch sensation, has not looked to relinquish once he gets into the lead of any races. This unbelievable consistency has put his career tally at 41 wins, placing him alongside Ayrton Senna in the record books. His impressive performance in the Canadian Grand Prix, where he led from pole to finish was another classy performance, also getting Red Bull‘s 100 F1 victory. Verstappen has now led more than 200 consecutive laps since the Miami GP and shows no signs of slowing down.

Helmut Marko would be the happiest man as he was one of the first ones to propagate that Verstappen is as good as Senna. According to Marca, Marko told OE24, “A few years ago, I compared Max (Verstappen) to (Ayrton) Senna and they laughed at me.”

“Little by little, the smart guys back then are running out of arguments. Max has not only progressed a lot as a driver, but has also developed a great personality. The incredible qualifying lap he gave in Monaco is close to Senna. Max is the best in all conditions.”

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While Verstappen’s individual performance has been spectacular, it’s worth noting that he’s part of a larger team, and his car – the Red Bull Racing RB19 – plays an integral role in his success.

Red Bull Racing RB19: The Rocketship Behind Max Verstappen Dominating F1 in 2023

The Red Bull Racing RB19 is a testament to the importance of technical superiority in F1. This car, marking the return of Honda as a named engine supplier to Red Bull Racing, is the result of design evolution and continuous improvement over its predecessor, the RB18​​.

From preseason testing at the Bahrain International Circuit, the RB19 demonstrated its dominance over competitors, with stability, reliability, and ease of driving that quickly made it the car to beat. Verstappen and his teammate, Sergio Pérez, have used this machine to lock out the front row in multiple races, demonstrating the car’s pace and their own driving skills.

Though, RB19’s impressive performance has not been without its challenges, though. Balance issues and driveshaft problems have cropped up, yet these have been overcome, allowing Verstappen and Pérez to secure their places at the top.

Max Verstappen’s ascent in the world of Formula 1 is a testament to his skill as a driver, the technical prowess of Red Bull Racing, and the seamless integration of man and machine. As the season continues, all eyes will be on Verstappen and the RB19, waiting to see if they can maintain their dominance and rewrite the Formula 1 history books.

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