Verstappen zooms onto Time's 100 most influential list

Formula 1 superstar Max Verstappen has added another prestigious credential to his illustrious career – a coveted spot on Time Magazine's 2024 Time 100 list.

The annual ranking recognizes the 100 most influential people in the world across six categories: artists, icons, leaders, titans, innovators and pioneers.

Verstappen's inclusion comes as no surprise given his prominent position within Formula 1 that was built on the back of three consecutive world titles in the sport and a record-breaking campaign in 2023.

For the Dutchman, categorized as a ‘Titan’ by Time, it’s been a three-year reign of excellence that has solidified his status as a global icon within the world of motorsports.

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The Time 100 list boasts a diverse range of influential figures. This year, Verstappen finds himself rubbing shoulders with fellow sporting giants like Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, South Africa's victorious 2023 Rugby World Cup captain Siya Kolisi, and Jenni Hermoso who was instrumental in Spain's 2023 Women's Football World Cup win.

Members of Time’s editorial staff and guest contributors penned each personality’s portrait.

Time's senior sports correspondent Sean Gregory described Verstappen as being “so confident behind the wheel that during at least one race he’s been able to keep an eye on the screens around the track in order to watch the battle going on behind him”.

“Can anyone stop Verstappen and the Red Bull Racing machine? He’s entrenched—quite comfortably—in the driver’s seat.”

Time 100’s prestigious recognition goes beyond the race track. It elevates Verstappen to the ranks of global influencers, highlighting the ever-growing impact of Formula 1 on a worldwide scale.

While the Red Bull charger’s busy schedule might prevent him from attending the Time 100 summit in April or the gala in May, his presence on the list is a testament to his dominance in Formula 1 and his influence that transcends the sport itself.

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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.