Max Verstappen is making history in Formula One. At just 27 years old, the Dutch driver is already statistically one of the greatest drivers of all time.
He ranks third all-time for race wins, with an impressive 62 victories. Even more remarkably, he is on course for a fourth successive world championship. Easybet’s odds of Verstappen winning the 2024 Formula One world championship are 1.02 after his epic Brazilian Grand Prix comeback.
With his aggressive style and unyielding consistency, Verstappen is establishing himself as one of Formula One’s greatest drivers.
Early Success and Rapid Rise
Verstappen joined Formula One at just 17, setting a record as the youngest-ever F1 driver. His early years were defined by raw speed and daring overtakes. By 2016, he had claimed his first win at the Spanish Grand Prix, becoming the youngest winner in F1 history at 18 years and 228 days. This win foreshadowed his potential. It showed that he was a future champion.
In the years that followed, Verstappen honed his craft. He became known for aggressive, calculated risks and pushing his Red Bull car to its limits. His speed and tactical insight helped him stand out in a competitive grid. By his early twenties, he was challenging the dominance of Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton (7.19). Verstappen’s talent was undeniable. His rapid rise showed he was destined for greatness.
Record-Breaking Wins and Titles
Today, Verstappen sits in third place for all-time race wins. His 62 victories place him just behind Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher. This achievement is remarkable given his age. At 27, Verstappen has achieved more than most drivers manage in a lifetime.
The consistency of his success is noteworthy. He has won three world titles in a row. Now, he is on course for a fourth. If he wins, he will join an elite group. Only a few drivers have ever achieved four consecutive championships. This would include the likes of Juan Manuel Fangio and Sebastian Vettel. Verstappen’s title streak signals his dominance in the sport. It cements his legacy among F1 legends.
Comparing Verstappen with Formula One Legends
Comparing Verstappen to F1 legends like Hamilton, Schumacher, and Ayrton Senna invites debate. Hamilton and Schumacher, each with seven world titles, hold the record for the most championships. Schumacher’s Ferrari era redefined dominance. Hamilton’s success with Mercedes is also iconic. Yet, Verstappen’s trajectory suggests he could challenge their records.
Unlike many champions, Verstappen made his mark in a highly competitive field. Drivers like Charles Leclerc (1.51), Lando Norris (1.38), and George Russell (6.95) provide fierce competition. Verstappen’s success against them proves his adaptability and skill. He has raised the bar for driving precision and aggressive racing. His approach resembles Senna’s fearless style, yet he also brings a modern finesse to his driving.
Building Red Bull’s Legacy
Verstappen’s achievements with Red Bull Racing are pivotal. His partnership with Red Bull mirrors Schumacher’s era-defining run with Ferrari. When Verstappen joined, Red Bull had been through several seasons of underperformance. However, with Max Verstappen, the team found new momentum. His ability to work closely with the engineers has been critical. Together, they developed a car capable of challenging and beating Mercedes.
Under Verstappen, Red Bull has become the team to beat. His success highlights his influence beyond just driving skills. He helped turn Red Bull into a championship powerhouse. The strength of his bond with Red Bull is a key factor in his legacy.
What Lies Ahead for Verstappen
At 27, Verstappen’s career is far from over. If he maintains his form, he could match or even surpass Hamilton and Schumacher’s records. He has the time and talent to become the winningest driver in history. The possibility of him reaching seven or more titles seems achievable.
Max Verstappen’s focus on continuous improvement suggests he is nowhere near finished. Every season, he pushes his limits, refining his skills and seeking more victories. His dedication to his craft makes him a formidable competitor. It’s also why fans and experts see him as a future F1 legend.
