Champion hails Verstappen as future GOAT despite title near-miss

14:41, 15 Dec

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byKada Sarkozi

Alex Palou believes that in 10 years, Max Verstappen will be considered the best driver ever.

"If we give him another 10 years, we'll be able to say that Max is probably the best in history."

- Alex Palou

While Verstappen missed out on the Formula 1 title despite a stunning comeback, Palou was crowned IndyCar champion.

The Spaniard's year was reminiscent of Verstappen's dominance in the 2023 season, and Palou also managed to claim his first victory at the famous Indy 500.

In Marca's Advent Calendar series, the Chip Ganassi Racing driver was asked about who is the best driver. According to Palou, in a decade's time, Verstappen will definitely be up there.

Alex Palou with McLaren at the 2022 US Grand Prix - Photo: Race Pictures

He explained: "It’s very hard to compare. For me, based on the memories from my childhood, it’s Michael Schumacher. But maybe I’ve exaggerated those memories, or maybe they’re real. Maybe back then I didn’t understand much about cars, and now I do, so I would see it differently."

"I can’t compare him with drivers from other eras, for example Senna, I never saw him, even though I’ve read about him, seen documentaries, and heard stories.

"And among today’s drivers, Max could be one of those who ends up being the best in history. If we give him another 10 years, we’ll probably be able to say that Max is the greatest of all time."

Verstappen named best driver of the season despite missing out on title

Verstappen missed out on his fifth world title by two points after winning the final three Grands Prix of the season.

According to the F1 Power Rankings panel, the Dutchman was the highest-ranked driver this season, as he outscored both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

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