Max Verstappen‘s popularity in Brazil is on the rise, perhaps more than ever before. This is evident in the lead-up to the São Paulo Grand Prix. The reason for this surge in popularity is a mystery, even to Verstappen himself. “Perhaps people’s perception of me has changed,” he suggests.
Verstappen’s relationship with Kelly Piquet, with whom he has a family, and thus a whole set of in-laws, likely contributes to his popularity in Brazil. However, there were years when the public there was less supportive of him than they are this year and, for instance, last year. His friendship with Gabriel Bortoleto, a Brazilian F1 driver, probably also plays a part.
“I’ve always been the same person, ever since I started in Formula 1,” Verstappen asserts on the Thursday preceding the Brazilian GP. “But I do notice a difference, indeed, for example, compared to last year. Yet, I haven’t changed, I don’t behave any differently. Perhaps the image of me has changed, the perception.”
This could be due to his friendship with Bortoleto. Verstappen has nothing but praise for his buddy from Brazil. “Gabi is a good driver, a talent, having a good season,” Verstappen emphasizes once again. “And he is a friend of mine, regardless of his Brazilian nationality. We also work together, I occasionally give advice when he has questions.”
