Red Bull motorsport boss Helmut Marko says reigning world champion Max Verstappen shares one outstanding common trait with F1 legends Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher.
Verstappen conquered his maiden F1 world crown last December in Abu Dhabi, beating to the title seven-time world champion and arch-rival Lewis Hamilton, albeit in controversial circumstances.
At just 24, the Dutchman who started his career in F1 as a teenager in 2015 with Toro Rosso has already collected 20 career wins as a Grand Prix driver, and faces a bright future with an opportunity to add many more titles to his track record.
Marko knows all too well that comparing great F1 drivers from different eras is a futile exercise. However, the Austrian recognized in Verstappen a few essential traits once displayed by Senna and Schumacher.
"It is impossible to compare them because they're from different periods," Marko told AutoRevue.
"But what they all have is complete focus – you can also call it ruthlessness. There is nothing that matters than, 'I want to win and I will do everything for it'."
"Thanks kid."
Throwback to when Michael Schumacher met a young fan called Max Verstappen. pic.twitter.com/Wkk5M5hF8h
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) December 12, 2021
Marko says there was no better demonstration of Verstappen's drive and fearlessness than on his final lap in qualifying last year in Saudi Arabia, the Red Bull driver was man on a mission, even if his efforts were ultimately ruined by a brush with the wall.
"He was sensationally fast," said Marko. "You could see that he was pushing the car so hard – it was even visible. He drove almost flawlessly."
The Red Bull chief says that Verstappen's relentless determination is in part what makes him such a strong rival for his peers.
"In the races, Hamilton knows that he can't leave the smallest gap open for Verstappen," said the Austrian.
"He's already poking his nose in when the other guy can't even see him in the rear-view mirror.
"This incredible willpower with the necessary talent makes all the difference."
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