Max Verstappen in Hungary - Red Bull Contentpool

Verstappen revealed by Lambiase as Hamilton's heir to F1 throne

18:48, 08 Aug

byNorberto Mujica

Gianpiero Lambiase and Laurent Mekies have hailed Max Verstappen’s impact on Formula 1, describing him as a generational talent whose influence extends far beyond the track.

'Schumacher's and Hamilton's void in F1 has been filled by Verstappen'

Speaking on Red Bull’s Behind the Charge, both men reflected on the Dutchman’s role as an inspiration to the next generation of drivers.

“Max is clearly a generational talent,” said Lambiase, Verstappen’s long-time race engineer.

“He’s followed in recent years Schumacher, Lewis, and he has taken on that mantle."

Verstappen in the Hungarian GP, Red Bull Contentpool

Verstappen on the Hungaroring, Red Bull Contentpool

'Formula One needs to be grateful for Max Verstappen'

For Lambiase it is particularly clear in the way the F1 rookies look up to the Dutchman.

"What he’s brought to this paddock is that you see it in his relationship with the rookies nowadays."

"They’re all looking up to him and aspiring to be him and to achieve what he’s achieved. I think Formula One needs to be grateful for that.”

Mekies on the Verstappen effect in the ladder up to F1

Mekies, now Visa Cash App RB team principal, highlighted Verstappen’s reach across the motorsport ladder. “I think we underestimate the effect that Max had and has on the whole single-seater pyramid,” he said.

“A way to look at Formula 1, a way to love the sport at 360 degrees in the car, outside of the car."

"That’s what a lot of the kids out there feel, they just dream about racing cars day and night, and Max shows them that’s how you get to be the best.

"I think we probably will need years, and maybe more, to understand how much of an imprint it gave.”