Max Verstappen was recently named Dutch Sportsman of the Year. His on-track exploits in the 2021 F1 season have earned him the F1 title and considerable appreciation from the entire motorsport community, even from his rivals. The Dutchman ended up winning 10 Grand Prix and a record of 18 podiums to reignite Red Bull’s dominance in the sport.
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Former Mercedes boss Norbert Haug recently made an honest confession about the 24-year-old. He believes that Verstappen is a special talent and is sure to win many more championships. However, the first title was not child’s play for him.
Lewis Hamilton seemed ready to add another trophy to his cabinet until the tables turned in Abu Dhabi.
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Formula 1 F1 – Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – December 12, 2021 Red Bull’s Max Verstappen crosses the finish line and wins the race and the championship pool via REUTERS / Kamran Jebreili TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
Now that the controversial championship result has finally been decided, the two drivers want to set an example in 2022. However, many believe that the era of Max Verstappen dominance has begun and Hamilton may be pushed back a bit.
Haug praises Max Verstappen for a great campaign
In a recent interview published by FormulaPassion, the former VP of Mercedes had good things to say about the Dutchman’s dominant campaign. Verstappen didn’t seem to have gone wrong one foot throughout the season. Of the 19 races he completed this season, he was on the podium in 18 of them.
A performance like this calls for laurels. Haug took a moment to recognize Verstappen’s clinical efforts this season. “One thing is certain: Max Verstappen is something very special. He makes incredible maneuvers that often go through. He rarely makes mistakes, his mistakes have been greatly reduced, “said the German, as reported by FormulaPassion.
“You just have to admit that Verstappen is a very special driver,” adds Haug.
Berger believes there will be a lot more for Verstappen
Former Ferrari driver Gerald Berger has seen many iconic rivalries during his racing time. He has seen firsthand how strong personalities like Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher have grown up. The Australian rider believes Max Verstappen has the skills and talent to be a multiple world champion.
In a recent interview with Servus TV, he made this bold prediction. “In the end he was a little bit lucky, but I think Max is always a champion. If you look at pure talent, he is an exceptional driver: He can still grow, but it won’t be easy, ”reports FormulaPassion.
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Formula 1 F1 – Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – December 12, 2021 Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton after finishing second in the race and in the world championship with the racing and world championship title Max Verstappen from Red Bull and third place in the Ferrari Carlos Sainz Jr. REUTERS / Hamad I Mohammed race
Berger also pointed out that Verstappen was up against Lewis Hamilton, statistically the greatest F1 driver. “Let’s not forget that this is a man who can beat Lewis Hamilton, who was only one step away from overtaking Michael Schumacher in terms of the number of world championships he has won.”
“Lewis will have to try again next year: That’s why next year will be another exciting Formula 1 year,” predicted Berger.
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Drivers will soon be back on track for winter testing as the world prepares for the 2022 F1 season. What surprises do you expect given the new regulations?
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