'Verstappen clearly one of F1's greatest talents'
F1 News
- GPblog.com
Former racing driver Hans-Joachim Stuck says Max Verstappen is not only the best driver today, but even one of the best in the history of the sport. In an interview with Eurosport, the German compared Verstappen to the likes of Michael Schumacher and Ayrton Senna.
With his second world title in his pocket, Verstappen sees himself in a line-up of very big names. Only 10 drivers ever managed to win more championships than Verstappen. And although the title was secured under remarkable circumstances, there is no disputing that Verstappen was absolutely dominant this season.
So agrees Stuck. The German, who himself drove for several Formula 1 teams in the 1970s, even ranks Verstappen among the sport's greats. According to Stuck, his style of braking late and holding an aggressive line in particular are skills that set him apart from the competition.
"These are talents that clearly line him up with Schumacher, Senna or Prost. He belongs there, there is no doubt about that. There are always such great talents, but Verstappen is at the top of this list."
Victories are only possible with a good team behind the driver
Stuck also emphasises that a driver's success is not just down to the driver himself, but is down to the entire team. According to him, that is the reason Red Bull is doing so well, and at the same time the reason Ferrari could not really keep up this year. Despite Ferrari often competing for victory this season, they have only been able to snatch wins away from Red Bull four times.
"That's why it's called a 'team'. Everyone, from the last mechanic in the workshop to the driver, has to perform at 100 per cent - then there is success. If someone makes a mistake, it gets out of hand."