Author: Barkha Roy
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen continues to dazzle the Formula 1 world with his outstanding performances, prompting two-time world champion Nico Rosberg to praise the Dutch driver and his team. Verstappen’s 2023 season has been extraordinary, winning nine of the eleven races, including seven consecutive victories from Miami to Hungary, with only two points lost due to losing fastest lap bonus points in Monaco and Canada.
At the Hungaroring, Verstappen equaled the prestigious record of motorsport legends Alberto Ascari, Michael Schumacher and Rosberg himself, securing seven consecutive wins in the 2015 and 2016 seasons for Mercedes. Now that he has set his sights on Sebastian Vettel’s record of nine consecutive wins, Verstappen’s dominance has left his competitors behind.
Although Verstappen’s incredible form has taken him to the pinnacle of success, Rosberg warns him not to become complacent. The former champion recognizes that when a driver is in such an unstoppable flow, there is a risk of losing motivation and becoming complacent. However, Rosberg praises Verstappen’s mental state, describing him as “phenomenal” and “in the zone” all the time, which reduces the likelihood of complacency.
Rosberg further emphasizes Verstappen’s level of driving, comparing him to motor racing legends such as Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton and Juan Manuel Fangio. He believes Verstappen’s performance is on a par with the best in Formula 1 history.
Red Bull’s dominance has been as remarkable as Verstappen’s individual achievements. By securing 12 consecutive race wins, the team broke a legendary record previously held by McLaren since 1988. With a significant lead of 110 points in the drivers’ standings and 229 points in the constructors’ standings, Red Bull is on course to create even more records over the course of the season.
Verstappen’s recent performances have made him stand out even more, especially compared to his teammate Sergio Perez, who has struggled to match his pace. Despite driving the same car, Perez has struggled to finish in the top eight in the last six races and has only managed to reach the podium twice.
As Verstappen and Red Bull prepare for the Belgian Grand Prix, the team is looking to extend its run of success. Rosberg’s warning to Verstappen remains clear: maintain your impressive form and avoid complacency. If Verstappen continues to perform at this level, his name will be engraved alongside the greatest drivers in the history of the sport.