Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsToro Rosso

Verstappen in the same mould as Senna and Schumacher

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David Coulthard and Eddie Jordan have repeatedly lauded Max Verstappen's incredible level of performance in his maiden Grand Prix season, but now the BBC pundits are comparing the Toro Rosso junior to F1 greats Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher.

Verstappen's rate of progress since he lined up on the grid in Melbourne has been steady and strong as the Dutch prodigy hones his skills and prowess.

While he may still be considered a diamond in the rough, his sheer speed and daring race craft - including his disposition towards stunning overtakes - are undoubtedly a foundation for greatness, something both Coulthard and Jordan have been quick to recognize this year.

“I compare him to Schumacher and Senna. I feel like in the early stages of his career he is that good,” Jordan said on BBC’s Brazilian GP coverage.

"He’s just using the confidence he has within him, it’s not experience that he’s using,” Coulthard added.

“It’s these sorts of performances that have him on the hit list for Ferrari and Red Bull.”

As he dazzled the Brazilian crowd once again with his spectacular overtaking maneuvers, Verstappen himself admitted he had been inspired on Sunday by some Interlagos footage he had once seen, and one particular pass at Turn 1 which involved two great drivers.

“I saw it a few years ago between Raikkonen and Schumacher,” the Dutchman said after the race. “I thought that looked nice — and then I had the opportunity to do it.”

REPORT: Rosberg keeps Hamilton at bay to win in Brazil

AS IT HAPPENED: Brazilian Grand Prix

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.