Horner: "Never worked with someone as determined as Verstappen"

Max Verstappen has made quite a name for himself since he joined Red Bull Racing. He is the main driver of the entire Red Bull Formula 1 initiative and since his debut he has had nine victories to his name. For the time being, the Dutchman remains associated with Red Bull and, as often happens, he can count on the praise of team boss Christian Horner.

He is exceptional

In an exclusive interview with RaceFans, Horner says: "It’s very difficult to compare drivers but he’s outstanding. I’ve never met a driver with more self-belief, self-assurance and determination."

"The level at which he’s now operating is outstanding. What he’s achieved with the car which, quite bluntly, we’re not as quick as a Mercedes, so to be beating a Mercedes and charging for grand prix wins and obviously winning that race at the Silverstone a couple of weeks ago is a huge testimony to Max."

"So he’s right up there. You can’t compare him with a Vettel, you can’t compare him with Ricciardo or what any of the others have been through", in other words, Verstappen is in a class of its own. Moreover, comparing drivers is always a bit tricky, because the situation per team and car changes with the year. What is clear is that Verstappen is completely in place and Red Bull is satisfied.

Offering the right environment

In order to maintain that fine working atmosphere, it is important to provide Verstappen with the right environment and material. As Verstappen is still fixed at Red Bull Racing for the time being, we are already looking somewhat towards 2022, when new technical regulations will be introduced.

"He believes in the team, he enjoys working in that team. He sees what we’re doing. He sees that 2022 is going to be very different. So we have to believe in each other," Horner said in the interview.