In a world where Formula 1 requires nothing less than perfection, Max Verstappen has become the ultimate phenomenon of sport. Peter Bayer, CEO of Racing Bulls, the famous Junior team of Red Bull, recently talked about the unprecedented qualities of Dutch in an interview with RacingNews365. From the modification of the very rules of sport to the incarnation of a concentration which competes with that of legends, the story of Verstappen is that of a brilliant relentlessness.
The prodigy that rewritten the rules
The arrival of Max Verstappen in Formula 1 at only 17 years old was a seismic moment for motorsport. Bayer, whose team helped develop Verstappen during his days at Toro Rosso, remembers the immediate impact:
“He was the best in karting and entered Formula 1 at only 17 years old. Max even managed to change the rules around superlice, which speaks volumes about its impact on sport. ”
Indeed, the raw talent of Verstappen forced the director's director of F1 to revise its criteria, ensuring that only the most prepared pilots could follow its traces. However, Verstappen remains a singular exception – a talent that transcends the regulations.
Unparalleled concentration
For Bayer, what distinguishes Verstappen, is not only its meteoric speed, but its sharp concentration as a razor.
“He comes to work every day in white sneakers, blue jeans and team t-shirt. He is friendly with everyone, but there is a level of concentration that I have never seen in anyone else. ”
Verstappen's unshakable calm has become its trademark, even in the most stressful scenarios. Bayer underlined the 2024 Verstappen campaign as a masterclass in resilience, the Dutchman winning his fourth championship despite a more competitive field and a less dominant car. His decisive victory in Las Vegas, two races before the end of the season, underlined his ability to perform under any circumstances.
A magician on the track
One of the most breathtaking performances of Verstappen took place during the Grand Prix du Brazil in 2024. Bayer remembers having looked at him with admiration:
“The way he drives is almost like magic. There is something special at home that makes you stop and watch, even when you are supposed to focus on your own team. ”
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Verstappen's ability to handle his car with surgical precision even leaves his fascinated experienced rivals. Bayer admits that as a competitor, the genius of Verstappen can be as frustrating as it is.
The human side of a legend
Beyond the track, Bayer paints a portrait of a man who remains deeply anchored despite his impressive achievements.
“He is authentic, funny and full of mind. Maybe I shouldn't say that, but he has a great sense of humor. He is also extremely intelligent. It is a privilege to know someone like him. ”
It is this mixture of humility and charisma that has made Verstappen a favorite of fans, as well as a model for what modern F1 pilots can aspire to be.
A reference for future generations
For Bayer, the influence of Verstappen competes with that of Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel. He believes that the 27 -year -old has not only raised Red Bull, but also established a new standard for the whole sport.
“Max has redefined what it means to be a pilot in the modern era. His talent, concentration and humility make him the ultimate model for current and future generations. ”
While Verstappen is preparing for the 2025 season, which begins at the Australian Grand Prix in March, he is ready to pursue an elusive fifth – a feat that would cement his place among the greatest of all time.
