Günther Steiner is certain: the Formula 1 is entering the Max Verstappen era. The Dutchman fell just two World Championship points short of clinching his fifth world title in Abu Dhabi. According to the former team boss, however, this will not make much difference for the history books: ‘This year will be remembered as the Verstappen period, because no one will really care that he did not take the title.’
Although the World Cups went to Woking this year, newly crowned world champion Lando Norris had to share the spotlight with Max Verstappen. The Dutchman impressed with his stunning comeback, and, to his own great surprise, was still in the running for the world title in Abu Dhabi. As a result, Verstappen was named the best driver of 2025 by both the team bosses and the drivers.
Former team boss Günther Steiner agrees with the Formula 1 grid. “I think people will primarily remember that Verstappen was the dominant driver of this era. Although McLaren had the best car with Lando and Oscar Piastri behind the wheel,” Steiner analyzes in the Red Flags podcast. “However, they nearly threw the championship away, and that will also be remembered years later.”
The Verstappen Era
According to the former team boss of Haas, therefore, one name will be particularly significant when looking back on the 2025 season. “In general, 2025 will be remembered as the Max Verstappen era. Regardless of whether he won the title or not,” the Italian continues his praise. “He is simply the kind of driver you only see once every twenty years. That’s why this year will be remembered as the Verstappen period, because no one really cares that he didn’t win the title. Everyone can remember Michael Schumacher, regardless of how good Mika Häkkinen was during that period (1998).”
