Verstappen first time leader: 'Other guys have that experience'

Max Verstappen leads the Formula One World Championship for the first time in his career. It's the first time since 2013 in which Verstappen has led the way in any series. The Dutchman has not lost his touch, according to his own words.

Verstappen in the lead

Where many young drivers climb the entire motorsport ladder from Formula 4, Formula 3, Formula 2 to eventually F1, for Verstappen it all went a bit faster. After his title in karting in 2013, he already got the chance to drive in Van Amersfoort Racing's Formula 3 cars in 2014. A big jump, but Verstappen quickly made it his own.

The Dutchman competed for the title in F3 for a long time but lost it to Esteban Ocon. Verstappen was promoted to F1 straight away though, thanks to his impressive debut in the formula cars. In F1, you're then completely dependent on your equipment to compete for the title, so it's not surprising that it's been a long time coming for Verstappen.

Leading in karting

''That was in 2013. I was still karting then. I only drove one season of Formula 3 and didn't lead that year. Other guys took a bit longer and have that experience,'' Verstappen said at the press conference according to the NOS. According to the Red Bull Racing driver there is no need to worry though.

''I know what to do. Just like back then. I had a good kart and my father prepared the engines. You always depend on your equipment, but if the combination is right it can be done," concluded Verstappen who will do everything he can in Azerbaijan to increase his lead of four points over Lewis Hamilton.