Tost: Verstappen and Schumacher Share 'Same Genes' for Success

Franz Tost, former team principal of Toro Rosso, has drawn a striking parallel between current F1 superstar Max Verstappen and legendary seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher. Tost asserts that both drivers share "the same genes" when it comes to their meticulous approach to car setups and relentless pursuit of performance, a key factor in their unparalleled success.

Why it matters:

This comparison from a veteran F1 figure like Tost highlights a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of championship-winning drivers: their profound dedication to understanding and perfecting their machinery. It suggests that raw talent alone isn't enough; an obsessive focus on car development is a shared trait that distinguishes these multi-world champions.

The details:

Tost, who led Toro Rosso from 2005 until his retirement in 2023, worked with many talented drivers, including Verstappen early in his F1 career. He observed that Verstappen, much like Schumacher, consistently prioritized car setup above all else.

• Tost recalled Schumacher's methodical approach, where the German focused intently on setup adjustments, understanding that it was the "distinguishing factor in performance."
• He explained on ServusTV, "He only cared about the setup because he knew that was the distinguishing factor in performance. That's why they're so successful. They fully understand the car. And there, Max delved into the details, just like Michael."
• Tost emphasized, "This is why they are successful. They both have the same genes. You can already see this with young drivers. Those who put in effort, go further; the others can forget it."
• Verstappen's four consecutive world titles (2021-2024) underscore his dominance, a period during which his mastery of car setup has been a widely acknowledged differentiator among his peers.

What's next:

The continued discussion of these unique traits by respected F1 figures like Tost reinforces a vital lesson for aspiring drivers and teams: the combination of immense talent and an unwavering, almost obsessive, dedication to car development forms the bedrock of championship success in Formula 1.