Timo Glock: Max Verstappen's blunt honesty makes him a true role model

Max Verstappen has a rare ally in former F1 driver Timo Glock, who insists the four-time champion is a true role model for speaking out against the sport's current regulations. Glock highlighted Verstappen's refusal to stay silent on issues like energy management and cornering speeds, calling it a sign of leadership, not negativity.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's criticism of the 2026-style cars — which reward slower corner entry for better exits — has divided opinion. But Glock argues the Dutchman's honesty protects F1's DNA. At a time when drivers often soften their remarks, Verstappen's bluntness stands out and may influence how the sport evolves.

Between the lines:

• Glock pointed to Verstappen's choice to skip the glitzy F1 film premiere in New York last year, instead testing a GT3 car with his own team. “He doesn't care about the show. He cares about the sport,” Glock said.
• The 28-year-old's passion extends beyond F1: he competed in the Nürburgring 24 Hours last weekend, drawing over 350,000 fans. Glock noted Verstappen's meticulous preparation — learning every corner, even where rain runoff flows — a level of detail that mirrors his F1 simulator work.
• Verstappen has admitted the current driving style could shorten his F1 career. Glock agreed: “You need to go slower through a corner to be quicker at the end. That's not the DNA of F1.”
• Glock compared Verstappen's dedication to legends like Michael Schumacher and Rafael Nadal: “All the big guys work their ass off to get better. He does the same — sim racing, GT3, everything makes him sharper.”

What's next:

With Verstappen's future contract discussions looming and his frustration with the regulations growing, his vocal stance may accelerate pressure on the FIA to reconsider the driving characteristics of the next-generation cars. Whether it leads to change or further isolation, Verstappen's approach ensures he remains the most compelling figure on the grid.