Max Verstappen's 2016 debut with Red Bull Racing marked a pivotal moment, not only for the then 18-year-old driver but also for his father, Jos Verstappen, who played an intense role in his early career. The move required a significant shift in their dynamic, as Jos revealed in a joint interview with Viaplay.
Why it matters
The transition from Toro Rosso to Red Bull brought Max into a much larger, more professional environment. For Jos, a former F1 driver deeply involved in his son's development, this meant gradually ceding control and stepping back from his hands-on support.
The details
- Jos admitted that he "sometimes struggled" with the necessity of reducing his direct involvement as Max matured and joined a top team.
- He recognized it as a "healthy" and natural part of the process, understanding that Red Bull had its own expert personnel surrounding Max.
- Initially, Max would ask for his father's help with team interactions and effort, but after moving to Red Bull, Jos was explicitly asked to take a step back.
- Max confirmed his father's presence remained important, noting that while Jos wasn't as present in the pitbox as during his Toro Rosso days, they still discussed race strategies and driving tips post-meetings.
What's next
The successful navigation of this transition allowed Max to fully integrate and flourish within Red Bull, leading to his four World Championships. It underscores the evolving support system necessary for a driver's progression in Formula 1.