Verstappen shares special relationship with 'Uncle Michael' Schumacher

In a conversation with the Swiss outlet Blick, they discussed how Verstappen, at just five years old, could already be seen in the pit lane alongside the Ferrari legend.

The now four-time world champion said: "Those images are beautiful memories. My father Jos was Schumacher’s teammate in 1994, which is why our families remained close in the years that followed. We even went on vacation together a few times. I knew him as Uncle Michael."

Verstappen then reflected on his memories of the seven-time F1 champion, pointing out several similarities with himself. "As a driver he was tireless. He gave everything. For him, everything revolved around winning, no matter how."

"On track he was, just like me, always completely focused. At home, on the other hand, he took care of his family and gave them the attention they deserved," Verstappen said.

Finally, Verstappen revealed there’s one way in which he is not the same as Schumacher. "After more than 230 Grands Prix, my goal is absolutely not to win seven world titles. My family and children are the most important thing to me. They motivate me in a way you can only feel in your own home."

According to 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve, Verstappen has what it takes to break that record.

He said: "He has the talent, so give him a chance, and he will snag it. Yes."