F1 legend firmly recommends Verstappen to reunite with former associate

07:30, 25 Jun

byTobia Elia

Max Verstappen’s future has been a hot topic of conversation in recent weeks. While the Dutchman has made it clear he intends to remain with Red Bull Racing, some doubts still linger. Former F1 driver Riccardo Patrese has also shared his thoughts, offering Verstappen a piace of advice.

Earlier today, Honda released an emotional tribute video celebrating Max Verstappen’s achievements with the engine supplier. In the footage, Verstappen even hinted at a potential future reunion the japanese manufacturer.

Meanwhile, former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya suggested the Dutchman should consider a move to Mercedes. Offering a different perspective, Riccardo Patrese also weighed in, sharing his thoughts in an interview with a betting site.

Verstappen should reunite with Newey?

Patrese finds it difficult to say where Verstappen should best go. However, he thinks that the Dutchman should take a gamble: "I don't know what he should do. It's hard because I didn't always know myself. There were possibilities in my life and I had chances, if I had chosen a different direction, I might have become a champion."

adrian newey with a red bull demo car in the background

Adrian Newey, currently working with the Aston Martin team

"We're talking about Verstappen, so I don't know what he should do, but if we look at the technology, I think: 'Who knows what the best power source is?'. So if I had to choose, I'd choose Adrian Newey, I know how good he is at setting up something new.

He then added: ''It's a very difficult choice. Maybe you can stay with Red Bull and see what happens in the first year with the new car. I think he can find a place at any time, because everyone wants Verstappen."

Verstappen is currently locked in a championship battle with McLaren, but he’s at risk of suspension — one more penalty point on his license would result in a race ban.

However, Patrese doesn't think Verstappen will change his driving style. "I think it's no problem for him and I don't think he likes it, because he probably disagrees with a penalty he received."

"If he loses his license, he'll get in the boat and relax for two weeks waiting for the next Grand Prix. I don't think it's a drama for him. He is the only driver who sometimes uses an old-fashioned fighting and driving style, like in my days. This is good, because he fights as it should be done. He also doesn't like to be silent, because nowadays everyone wants to silence the drivers."