Verstappen not changed after title: 'No, he isn't at all'

Christian Horner likes the fact that Max Verstappen has remained the same Max Verstappen. It's not that Horner expected the Red Bull Racing driver to walk out of his shoes after his first world championship, but according to the 48-year-old Briton, it's another confirmation of what special person Verstappen is.

Verstappen, a real fighter

"He’s got that inner burning desire. He’s a real fighter. You know when you put him in the car he’s going to give you 110 per cent," Horner told talkSPORT Breakfast. When Verstappen steps out of the car, however, he's kind of a different person, the top executive said. "Outside the car, he’s just a normal lad. A nice guy that likes his sport, big into his football, and loves his gaming, too.

Verstappen is hugely in the spotlight and earns an astronomical salary, but Horner notes that he is not going to step out of his shoes. Verstappen's focus is primarily on racing and winning even more titles. "He’s just a nice guy who doesn’t need a high profile life and just loves what he does." In any case, the 24-year-old Dutchman's hunger is not yet satisfied.

"Great to work with Max"

When asked if winning the title has changed Verstappen, Horner replied, "No it’s not at all. He’s matured since he came to us as a 17-year-old, but he’s still very much the same guy with the same values. He’s great to work with.” Within Red Bull, Verstappen is hugely loved by everyone and everything.

Horner knows that Verstappen has another big job ahead of him in 2022. Not only will he 'just' take on seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton again in the Mercedes, the Red Bull team boss also warns against drivers like Lando Norris, George Russell and Charles Leclerc.