Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, recently shared an insightful remark from Bernie Ecclestone, the former Formula 1 boss, who had high praise for Max Verstappen’s performance at the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix, held at the Interlagos circuit. Ecclestone, a man with decades of experience in the motorsport world, called Verstappen’s drive at Interlagos “one of the very best I’ve ever seen,” underscoring the significance of the young Dutchman’s remarkable performance.
Max Verstappen’s drive in Brazil was nothing short of sensational, showcasing his skill, racecraft, and mental toughness. After starting from a position lower on the grid, Verstappen delivered an electrifying performance, cutting through the pack with precision, aggression, and an exceptional strategic mindset. His ability to handle the challenging conditions at Interlagos, particularly with rain showers that added to the complexity of the race, was a testament to his experience and maturity as a driver.
Horner’s recounting of Ecclestone’s words emphasizes the weight of the compliment. Bernie Ecclestone, who oversaw Formula 1’s growth and commercialization over many years, has seen countless races and performances throughout the sport’s history. For him to single out Verstappen’s drive at Interlagos highlights the extraordinary nature of the performance, placing it among the greatest he has witnessed in the sport. Ecclestone’s perspective, given his unparalleled understanding of what makes a great Formula 1 drive, lends even more credence to Verstappen’s already widely acknowledged brilliance.
Max Verstappen’s performance at Interlagos wasn’t just a victory on paper; it was a clear statement of his ability to perform under pressure, adapt to changing race conditions, and execute flawlessly in critical moments. As one of the leading drivers of his generation, Verstappen’s continued dominance in Formula 1 has only grown more evident as he continues to build on his already impressive career.
Christian Horner’s recounting of Ecclestone’s admiration also serves as a reflection of how Verstappen has elevated his game. From a talented but sometimes inconsistent young driver, he has blossomed into one of the sport’s most formidable forces, consistently displaying a level of excellence that few can match. His strategic understanding of races, particularly when dealing with variable weather conditions, shows that he is not just a fast driver, but one who can think critically and adapt to whatever challenges the race throws at him.
In essence, Bernie Ecclestone’s praise of Verstappen’s drive in Brazil, as relayed by Christian Horner, speaks volumes about the magnitude of the Dutch driver’s talents. Verstappen’s performance at Interlagos is now firmly entrenched as one of the great drives in Formula 1 history, and for those like Ecclestone, who have seen it all, that kind of recognition is rare but well-deserved.