Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing have formed a seemingly unbreakable combination, with Verstappen celebrating his 200th Grand Prix in Hungary, having secured 117 podium finishes with the team since his 2016 debut.
Why it matters
Jonathan Wheatley, formerly Red Bull's sporting director and now team principal at Stake F1, offers a unique perspective on Verstappen's journey, highlighting the dedication and raw talent that underpinned his rise to multiple championships.
The details
Wheatley's connection to the Verstappen family dates back to 1994, working with Max's father, Jos. He recalls Max's immediate impact at Red Bull:
- Debut Win: Max's victory on his Red Bull Racing debut in Barcelona in 2016 felt like a "fairy tale" coming full circle.
- Learning Ability: "Whatever you told Max, he listened to every piece of advice and absorbed the information. Not forgetting it afterwards. As if the driving itself didn't bother him at all."
- Memorable Races: Beyond Barcelona, the 2016 Brazilian Grand Prix also stood out as a special early moment.
- Pit Stop Excellence: As the man responsible for pit stops, Wheatley remembers the 2018 Austrian Grand Prix, where a successful double stop contributed to Verstappen's win. His podium appearance in lederhosen was a highlight.
The 2021 championship
The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Verstappen clinched his first world title against Lewis Hamilton, remains a defining moment. Wheatley initially feared losing the championship:
- Intense Emotion: "The emotion I felt after Max crossed the line first cannot be described. It still gives me goosebumps now."
- Post-Race Protests: Mercedes filed a double protest, even bringing a lawyer to the hearings. "Fortunately, we were vindicated, and the team could celebrate again."
- Team Spirit: The passion and sacrifice of the Red Bull team, combined with working alongside a talent like Max, made the victory incredibly fulfilling.
Looking back
Verstappen's tenure with Red Bull, marked by significant milestones and intense battles, continues to define an era in Formula 1, with Wheatley's insights underscoring the team's unwavering belief in their star driver.