But when Verstappen is asked about the role of father Jos in his career, the four-time world champion immediately finds himself in the talking chair.
“I have experienced great things with my father since the moment I started racing,” said Verstappen in the run-up to the United States Grand Prix. “I found it very impressive how good he was as a driver, but also how he could then adjust my karts, for example. It is difficult to describe, but he made me the person I am today.”
Verstappen continues about his father: “I think he would be a very good team boss. He won’t want that, but he has so much knowledge. We still discuss everything during a Formula 1 weekend, but also about GT cars. My father can help me with many things. He has given me so much knowledge and experience and sacrificed a lot for my career. I have never seen anyone else so committed to providing their son with the best opportunities. He always gave 110 percent.”
United States Grand Prix timetable: when will Max Verstappen be in action?
The Red Bull driver has no desire to stir things up (unnecessarily) and keeps repeating that he is not thinking about the title fight. The difference with World Cup leader Oscar Piastri is 63 points, with six games to go.
What does Max Verstappen say about developments at Red Bull?
“I just don’t think about it too much. I try to get the most out of it every weekend, in that respect it doesn’t matter whether I’m first or third. But if we don’t win, there’s nothing to lose. I don’t feel any pressure. Of course it helps that I’ve already won something. The last three races were very good, although I don’t think we got the most out of the car in Singapore (second, ed.). But it’s clear that the team is on the right track. Confidence is high and we understand better what the car is capable of.”