There is no right answer to this question, but Max Verstappen names his top five Formula 1 drivers – he has a very special relationship with one of them
As a three-time Formula 1 world champion, Max Verstappen is one of the most successful drivers in the history of the premier class and holds a number of records in addition to numerous trophies. However, when asked who he counts among the five best drivers of all time, he doesn’t name himself
F1, the Dutchman was asked precisely this question on the sidelines of the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Canada. “You know what happens, no matter what I say, people will comment on it and disagree,” warns Verstappen, before finally settling on five names.
“It’s a difficult question … I would say Michael probably Ayrton (Senna), Fernando (Alonso), Lewis (Hamilton) and (Juan Manuel) Fangio. So old school,” the Red Bull driver explains his choice.
Verstappen has a special relationship with one of these names, as he admits in the same interview, namely Alonso. “I think Fernando always shows himself as he is, that’s something I really admire,” enthuses the world champion.
That’s why you often see the two of them putting their heads together during the Grands Prix, for example at the drivers’ parade, in the media area or after training sessions.
“Despite his success, he is a passionate racing driver and a normal, nice guy, which I really appreciate,” says Verstappen, citing reasons for the good relationship with Alonso. “In general, he is also happy when another driver is doing well. “
The Dutchman also sees certain parallels when it comes to getting his home fans in Spain and Holland excited about Formula 1: “I think he was also the first Spanish driver to make Formula 1 big and become world champion. For me, it’s a bit like that in Holland.”
Verstappen can only joke about the age difference between the two drivers. When he made his Formula 1 debut at the age of 17, Alonso was almost twice as old at 33. “He loves racing and I love racing. He probably loves it a bit more than I do because he’s still here at his age!”
That also earns Verstappen “a lot of respect”. “I remember following him when he was in Formula 1 and I was still training in karts. He’s a driver who is worth turning on the TV for, because you know he’s going to race well,” enthuses the Red Bull driver.
