Verstappen explains hobby: 'It keeps me sharp in Formula 1'

Max Verstappen's sim racing was questioned by the media following a chaotic Hungarian Grand Prix last season, however in conversation with Daily Sport, the sport's branch of the Daily Mail, the Dutchman has given his thoughts on the subject.

"Honestly, it keeps me sharp. In my opinion, you're doing the same thing as F1. Of course, hitting the wall doesn't hurt but everything else in terms of overtaking, defending, pit stops, strategy and working on setup - there are so many similarities with sim racing. Naturally, I like to win in real life but also in the virtual world" Verstappen said.

When Verstappen was asked what is so cool about sim racing, he gave a clear answer. In the king class of motorsport, there is only room for 20 drivers, while online talents also get a chance to prove themselves.

"If you look at the real racing world, it's mainly dominated by a few countries. With a competition like this, it doesn't matter where you're from in the world. Anything is possible. That's why it's great to see all these countries represented. It gives you a chance to be competitive from wherever you are in the world," Verstappen concluded.