Car and team don't matter: 'Verstappen will be fast anywhere'

Emerson Fittipaldi already mentioned that he is a huge fan of Max Verstappen, and that the Dutchman can truly make a difference within a team.

This past weekend, the Brazilian F1 world champion confirmed this once again.

Fittipaldi told Motorsport.com that, according to him, Verstappen is on another level and he carries the team and the car on his back, even when the car is not good.

If the double world champion were to own a Formula 1 team, he would immediately sign the Dutchman. "Max would be my first guy to hire," the 78-year-old said.

The Brazilian was also asked whether Verstappen has made a good choice to stay with Red Bull Racing next year.

He then stated that he didn't know, as it is impossible to predict how other teams will perform next year.

"But one thing I do know: Max will be fast, no matter what car he's in", concluded the former F1 driver.

Verstappen announced in Hungary that he will at least stay with Red Bull Racing next year. This put an end to a period of rumours about a possible move to Mercedes for 2026.

If Red Bull is not fast enough to fight for the title in 2026 however, former team boss Guenther Steiner believes the Dutchman will get a multi-year deal at Mercedes for 2027.