“Formula 1 should thank Max Verstappen”: Former F1 supremo claims $250 million F1 star is what fans wanted all this while

Max Verstappen is surely not among the most humble and polite drivers on the grid. The Dutchman is proud of his capabilities, reflected in his driving skills, as he is confident whenever he takes the F1 wheel in his hands.

That kind of confidence does need the backing of excellent performances. Otherwise, it’s not worth it. In Verstappen’s case, his performances work for his attitude in front of the world and even on the radio.

Surely such behaviour would grab a certain degree of admirers. That’s why the 25-year-old is the grid’s second most marketable F1 driver, with a net worth of $250 million. And now former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone is also a fan.

Also read: How George Russell overcame insecurity of seeing Alex Albon and Lando Norris getting early breakthroughs in points

Bernie Ecclestone think F1 should thank Max Verstappen

Seeing Verstappen’s characteristics, Ecclestone is impressed. He claims that this is what F1 and its fans demanded in a driver all this while, and he should be treasured.

“Formula 1 should thank Max Verstappen. Max is a pure racer. He does what he has to do, which is to drive. The fans have wanted someone like him for a while,” said Ecclestone to NextGenAuto.

He also discussed that with the rise of Verstappen, the Netherlands had put him on a pedestal. Because of Verstappen, F1 has returned to the Netherlands because of the wide demand. The last two editions of the Dutch GP have been a colossal success, with the Orange Army chanting only one name.

3rd time in 2023?

With 15 wins in a season, Verstappen comprehensively conquered the F1 title. The Dutchman absolutely dominated the whole grid and squashed any opponent coming between him and the title.

Compared to 2021, this year has been very less stressful for him. Showing that Red Bull has mastered the 2022 regulations. But Ecclestone isn’t sure that the dominance will continue in 2023.

Even former F1 driver Mika Hakkinen thinks a surprise awaits in 2023. He claims the new regulations aren’t like 3-4 years ago, so a new champion can be seen next year.

Next year, Mercedes is expected to step up their game. It can reignite the legendary rivalry between Verstappen and Hamilton. On the other hand, Ferrari is expected to take a step forward after a decent 2022 season.

Also read: Daniel Ricciardo seeking familiarity played massive role in him snubbing Mercedes

About the author

Tanish Chachra

Tanish Chachra is the Motorsport editor at The SportsRush. He saw his first race when F1 visited India in 2011, and since then, his romance with the sport has been seasonal until he took up this role in 2020. Reigniting F1's coverage on this site, Tanish has fallen in love with the sport all over again. He loves Kimi Raikkonen and sees a future world champion in Oscar Piastri. Away from us, he loves to snuggle inside his books.

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