Jos, Max Verstappen’s father admitted he was not “not always optimistic” as to the fact that his son could win a fourth consecutive title in 2024.
Jos Verstappen and Max’s girlfriend Kelly were not in Las Vegas, which was the first mathematical opportunity for Verstappen to win the title this year.
"I didn’t feel very well," explained Verstappen senior.
“I have a little flu, so I didn’t want to be near Max. There was also the time difference, and this coming week I have a rally race myself, so I have to prepare a little. “
Verstappen, 52, who failed to win a Grand Prix in his own Formula One career, instead watched the race on television.
“I was nervous. I was already awake at 4 a.m. because I couldn’t sleep. It’s the tension that comes with it, but in the end it worked. Not in the way that Max would have liked, I think, but the most important thing is that it worked.”
Indeed, Verstappen qualified and finished 5th, but ahead of his title rival Lando Norris.
Jos has reached the podium twice after racing for Benetton, Simtek, Footwork, Tyrrell, Stewart, Arrows and Minardi – while his son now has four titles, 111 podiums and 62 Grand Prix victories.
"I get goosebumps when you say it like that," admitted the Dutchman. “It’s crazy when you think about it, especially when a small country like the Netherlands performs so well. It’s something to be very proud of.”
Nonetheless, Jos – who has been outspoken about Christian Horner this year and has been highly critical of Red Bull at times – admitted he was prepared for Max’s 2024 campaign not to work out.
“Max of course had some lead, but it also depended on what they would do with the development of the car. I certainly wasn’t always positive about that anymore. But what Max ultimately showed, and the races that “What he did in Brazil in particular allowed him to cross the finish line of this season quite calmly.”
And while Jos became involved in the power struggles and feuds within Red Bull, Max seemed to remain calm throughout the season – which Jos admits was genuine.
“He was pretty relaxed about everything and I think he’s now reaping the rewards of being treated a little more harshly by me. I think Max needed that learning experience.”
“When we see how he handles pressure now, I can only be proud.”
Jos has, however, openly discussed the idea of his son moving to Mercedes in 2026, and he remains critical of the direction Red Bull is taking.
“The team knows what the problems are and what needs to change. Now they have to prove that they can deal with them. I want to see a fifth title next year. We started this season very well, but then we “Now it’s up to the team to see how things go in 2025.”
“Red Bull doesn’t have the fastest car at the moment, otherwise Max would be winning races. The fact that he won the title with this car speaks for itself. Look at (Sergio) Perez’s results. Something Something needs to change for them to be competitive again.”
“This year’s title once again shows how strong Max is.”
Max can now travel to Qatar and Abu Dhabi knowing that he is already the 2024 world champion.
“Max is of course happy that it has been decided now. It has been a difficult year with a less competitive car. He is the best in the world.”
“You saw in Las Vegas that everyone was struggling with the tires except Mercedes. But Max had a good opening phase of the race and then consolidated. Then it was important to finish in front of Norris. “also took no risks in insisting on keeping the Ferraris behind him.”
“If Max has a good enough car, he’s in contention for a title. But it’s up to the team to build a better car for next year, otherwise we’ll be nowhere. It’s definitely not the due to Max’s fault, everyone knows now, this season has demonstrated his talent.”
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