As he enters his 11th F1 season and prepares for fatherhood, Max Verstappen reflects on his journey, Red Bull, and what’s next.
Ahead of the new season and winter testing, Max Verstappen shared more about his enthusiasm (is it still there?), his confidence (is it really intact?), and his personal life (will becoming a father change his driving?).
First, does Max Verstappen believe Red Bull is no longer the outright favorite this season, with attention shifting towards McLaren F1 or Ferrari? Is Red Bull entering the season in a significantly weaker position compared to previous years?
“I think what’s beautiful is that every championship I’ve won has been in a different way. Of course, last year was particularly demanding. We started the season very well, then went through a slightly more challenging period. Towards the end, we had ups and downs, but that can happen in Formula 1. What matters is what we learn from it, and hopefully, this year, with everything we’ve taken from last season, we can put together an even stronger performance.”
Is Max Verstappen targeting the title again this year? Has he set specific goals?
“Well, I always aim for consistency and trying not to make too many mistakes, which are obviously connected. Always looking to improve year after year. It’s not about the car, just the driving. We always try to be a little better. At this stage of my career, the improvements I can make are smaller than when I was 18, but each year, I’d like to get just a bit better.”
In 2025, the reigning champion will already be entering his 11th season in F1! He is now one of the most experienced drivers on the grid…
“I’ve been in Formula 1 for quite a while now. Starting my 11th season—it’s pretty crazy. I really feel like I’ve been in F1 for a long time. I’m just excited about what’s ahead.”
“What I love about Red Bull is that I can simply be myself. I think it’s very important to be able to be yourself within a team. For me, having been part of the team for so long, it feels like a second family. It seems like we have a bit more fun than most teams on the grid, and I think that’s also very important.”
Are there any circuits the Red Bull driver is looking forward to more than others? With 24 Grands Prix, there’s plenty of choice…
“Personally, the ones that excite me the most are always Spa and Zandvoort, two incredible circuits. Spa is my favorite track, and of course, Zandvoort is my home Grand Prix, with great racing memories there as well. For me, these two are always highlights of the calendar, both for the driving experience and the atmosphere with the fans.”
Max Verstappen will have a new teammate this year in Liam Lawson. Does he see him as just a ‘wingman,’ or is he wary of him?
“It’s very exciting. We’ve seen Liam grow within the Red Bull family, and it’s going to be very interesting to work together with the team. I really hope we can do a great job together, try to improve the car, and make it more competitive.”
Papa Max, a non-event?
Max Verstappen will also become a father in 2025. Does he expect this new chapter to change much for him?
“To be honest, I hope it won’t change much. In terms of driving, it shouldn’t. It’s obviously very exciting. It’s hard to put it into words until the baby is born. But I’m definitely looking forward to it and excited to experience it all throughout the year.”
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Max’s New Era: F1 Glory & Life Beyond the Track Max’s New Era: F1 Glory & Life Beyond the Track Max’s New Era: F1 Glory & Life Beyond the Track
