Max Verstappen is a role model for many drivers – in 2025, rookies were often found in the company of the Dutch champion. However, the four-time world champion also has his own idols, especially within Formula 1. In particular, the legendary Michael Schumacher stands out for Verstappen – not only because of the way he approached the sport, but also because he was a true family man at the same time.
In honor of the 75th anniversary of Formula 1, Max Verstappen – as the reigning world champion – was asked to write a foreword for the British magazine The Road Rat. The 28-year-old from Limburg, who has been competing in the premier class for almost ten years and has won four world titles, did not hesitate to do so. In the piece, he describes the role of a Formula 1 driver, with Verstappen paying notably much attention to Michael Schumacher.
“As a driver, you must have natural talent,” says the Red Bull driver. “Otherwise, you simply won’t even make it into Formula 1. But there are many people who possess that talent. The next step is hard work; honing that talent, gaining experience, and understanding how a car works. I know plenty of incredibly talented drivers who didn’t make it in Formula 1. Perhaps they just didn’t work hard enough.”
Schumacher’s Mentality
Verstappen explained that Schumacher — one of the most successful drivers of all time — distinguished himself through his work ethic. “Michael Schumacher is, to me, the driver who always worked hard, who gave everything he had,” said Verstappen. “He knew no compromises. The only thing that mattered was winning — it didn’t matter how, as long as he won. Compared to many other drivers, he was far ahead of his time in terms of fitness. He took excellent care of himself and was always in top shape to perform, without any excuses.”
“When you combine all these factors, that’s what made Michael a great driver,” the Dutchman continued. Verstappen knew the German legend — albeit at a young age — personally. “He and my father were good friends,” he explained. “We sometimes went on vacation together, and we still have video footage from that time — those are special memories. I appreciate that Schumacher was such a family man. At the circuit, he was super focused, completely geared towards performance. But as soon as he was home, he took good care of his family and gave them his full attention. I find that wonderful to see — an example of how you can lead your life.”
