Kicking off a career with Red Bull
Max Verstappen: Four-Time Formula 1 Champion's Journey with Red Bull Racing
Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, has had a remarkable journey with Red Bull Racing. Joining Toro Rosso in 2015 and Red Bull Racing in 2016, Verstappen has achieved 66 Grand Prix victories and four world championships with the team.
Despite a slow start, Verstappen's passion for racing was evident even during his driving school experience. This passion remained, despite a challenging beginning in a Porsche with heavily restricted power and 150 kg of extra baggage, resulting in him losing many positions at the start of a race.
Verstappen's relationship with Red Bull has been long-standing, and he has committed to racing with the team for the foreseeable future, provided the team remains competitive and can offer him winning equipment. His current contract runs until 2028.
The upcoming season will present new challenges for Verstappen, as Red Bull will be starting the season with a self-developed powertrain for the first time. Verstappen acknowledges these challenges but remains optimistic about the future.
Personnel changes have occurred at Red Bull this year, with Christian Horner, who had been team principal since 2005, being dismissed from the team. Despite these changes, Verstappen's relationship with the Red Bull team remains strong, and he enjoys racing with them.
Verstappen's humility has been noted by his peers, with Gabriel Bortoleto, a Sauber driver and friend of Verstappen, stating that Verstappen's humility keeps many people grounded. Bortoleto even teased Verstappen about his poor performance at the start of a race.
In other news, Verstappen has become a father for the first time this year. Off the track, Verstappen has also been working on obtaining a license to race at the Nürburgring's Nordschleife. He followed a driving instructor around the track to meet the necessary criteria.
There have been no indications that Verstappen will leave Red Bull Racing for Ferrari or Mercedes. Verstappen's license acquisition demonstrates his willingness to comply with rules and regulations, a trait that has been consistent throughout his career.
Verstappen's future with Red Bull Racing looks promising, and fans can look forward to seeing him compete in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring next year, if he meets the necessary criteria.
