Verstappen's comments make ex-F1 driver concerned about competition's future

20:02, 28 Feb

0 Comments

byKada Sarkozi

Riccardo Patrese believes Max Verstappen's Verstappen’s verdict about the new Formula 1 cars is very worrying

During pre-season testing, the four-time world champion called the new generation of cars 'Formula E on steroids'.

According to the Italian, when Verstappen decides to leave Formula 1, it will be a big loss for the competition. The Dutchman was already outspoken on multiple occasions about not wanting to stay in F1 forever.

"We have seen Max Verstappen can make the difference that only the very best drivers of the past, like [Ayrton] Senna and [Michael] Schumacher, could. It would be a big loss if he left Formula 1 because he is a great champion," Patrese began to a betting site.

"Now, I see him as the only driver who can make a difference and win even if he does not have a winning car. Last year he proved that and almost won the championship."

Max Verstappen driving the new RB22 - Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Patrese finds Verstappen's comment worrying

The former driver finds it odd that the Dutchman finds it more 'thrilling' to compete in endurance racing, because he had a different experience.

"It's strange that Formula 1 doesn't give this thrill to the drivers anymore as it has in the past. It is a concern if Max has to look for those thrills in other categories. That is very strange."

He added: "Now an F1 driver is saying that he derives no pleasure driving in Formula 1 and he wants to go to that endurance racing. It seems strange to me."