Lazenby: Why Verstappen ‘is one of the most honest drivers out there’

Sky Sports F1 presenter Simon Lazenby has heaped praise on Max Verstappen for his authenticity and no-nonsense approach in front of the cameras, describing the four-time world champion as “one of the most honest drivers out there.”

The Dutchman, who has dominated Formula 1 with four consecutive world titles, is often admired for his raw speed and relentless competitiveness.

But away from the cockpit, Verstappen has earned growing respect for his candid attitude toward the media – an increasingly rare trait in modern-day F1 where a driver’s words are often measured and polished.

A Champion’s Candor

Speaking on the Road to Success podcast, Lazenby said Verstappen’s reputation for straight-talking isn’t a PR tactic – it’s who he really is.

“And also, the thing that you don’t see with Max so often, or whatever the perception might be, for me, he’s one of the most honest drivers out there,” Lazenby said.

That sincerity, Lazenby explained, sets the 68-time Grand Prix winner apart from others who might be more guarded in their responses.

“I, for one, have nothing but the greatest respect for him,” added the Briton. “I think that he’s super down-to-earth considering who he is. He really has clung on to who he was, and you don’t get that from all of them,” he continued.

Grounded Greatness

Lazenby also acknowledged that Verstappen’s intensity in interviews sometimes comes with the territory of being at the top of the sport.

“He might be tough in front of the camera sometimes, but that’s because you get that if you’re a four-time world champion,” he said.

“You get that with everything that’s happened at Red Bull and after 2021. But I’ve got nothing but respect for him. I think he’s just incredible.”

For the Sky F1 anchor, Verstappen’s best moments come when he’s speaking freely and refusing to play the game of polite soundbites.

“Favourite moment? I just like it when he’s in the pen and he’s honest,” Lazenby concluded.

“He does not shy away from the tough questions. And if he thinks that someone’s asking him a question that he deems as stupid, he’ll call it out.”

Verstappen’s unfiltered approach may divide opinion, but Lazenby believes it’s part of what makes him compelling – both as a driver and as a person.

In an era where polished PR answers dominate the paddock, Verstappen’s candour, Lazenby suggests, is a reminder that the sport’s biggest star is still refreshingly real.

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