In a rare and candid interview, Formula 1 icon Michael Schumacher, who once held an extraordinary suite of records that seemed unbreakable, recently shared his thoughts on the astounding accomplishments of Max Verstappen. Schumacher, whose legendary career included a remarkable seven world championships and 91 Grand Prix victories, acknowledged that Verstappen’s relentless performance in the 2023 season and his ability to continually shatter records have set a new standard in Formula 1. Schumacher expressed admiration for Verstappen’s talent and resilience, stating that Verstappen is “truly the best of his time,” carrying forward a legacy of skill and competitive spirit that transcends generations.
One of Schumacher’s long-standing records—consecutive podium finishes—stood for nearly two decades before Verstappen broke it. Schumacher praised Verstappen’s impressive ability to deliver high-stakes performances week after week, noting that his level of consistency is something rarely seen in F1. Verstappen’s record-breaking run, which includes an incredible 15 consecutive podium finishes and a series of pole positions this season, mirrors the dominance Schumacher displayed in his heyday with Ferrari. Schumacher reflected on how challenging it was to maintain such dominance over time and pointed out that Verstappen’s achievements have surpassed even the loftiest expectations for modern F1 drivers.
Schumacher’s comments also shed light on Verstappen’s remarkable journey, particularly his growth within Red Bull Racing. Verstappen’s early career was marked by bursts of speed and raw talent, but in recent years, he has matured into a driver capable of both winning races and strategically managing his championship campaign—a balance that Schumacher himself mastered in the 2000s. Schumacher commented that Verstappen’s 2023 season evokes memories of his own era at Ferrari, where he achieved dominance through a blend of technical prowess and a relentless pursuit of perfection. He stated, “Max’s approach to racing shows both immense discipline and skill, qualities that separate good drivers from the truly exceptional.”
At the Japanese Grand Prix in September, Verstappen claimed a decisive victory, breaking yet another Schumacher record with his pole position margin—signaling both Red Bull’s advanced engineering and Verstappen’s unparalleled driving ability. Schumacher remarked that Verstappen’s dominance is a testament not only to the driver but also to the team around him, as Red Bull Racing has created a car that maximizes Verstappen’s potential. This collaboration between team and driver is reminiscent of Schumacher’s own partnership with Ferrari, where teamwork and innovation helped him achieve his historic record streaks.
Reflecting on the significance of records in the sport, Schumacher emphasized that while records are meant to stand as markers of achievement, they also serve to inspire the next generation of drivers. He expressed satisfaction in seeing Verstappen reach such historic heights, explaining that records are ultimately milestones meant to elevate the sport. Schumacher continued, “Records are symbols of what is possible, and they are there to be broken. Seeing Max achieve this level of success only strengthens the legacy of F1.”
Looking forward, Schumacher suggested that Verstappen’s career trajectory could well place him among the all-time greats, depending on his continued performance and the evolution of Red Bull’s racing strategy. He hinted that Verstappen’s career might follow a similar path of dominance if he remains focused and supported by a strong team. Schumacher’s endorsement of Verstappen not only highlights the achievements of the Dutch driver but also reflects Schumacher’s own grace and humility in acknowledging a new era in Formula 1.
The interview underscores the mutual respect between these two giants of the sport. Schumacher’s praise for Verstappen as the best of his generation serves as a symbolic passing of the torch, reinforcing Verstappen’s status as the standard-bearer of modern F1 and honoring Schumacher’s enduring legacy in the annals of motorsport. Schumacher’s final words in the interview were a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of competition: “Max has taken F1 to a new level. As a fan and a competitor, there is no greater satisfaction than seeing the sport evolve. Max’s achievements inspire us all.”
Schumacher’s reflections offer a unique insight into the shared values and admiration between these two champions, bridging past and present with a sense of respect and reverence for the relentless pursuit of excellence in Formula 1.
