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Jos Verstappen revealed that F1 legend Michael Schumacher treated Max Verstappen and Mick Schumacher equally as children. He would give both kids the same racing advice, which Jos believes helped Verstappen in becoming the driver he is today.
Michael Schumacher and Jos Verstappen briefly raced as teammates in 1994 while driving for Benetton. This was the year when the German claimed his first World Championship. Their sons, Mick and Max were born with just a two-year gap, right before Schumacher started dominating the grid with Ferrari in the early 2000s.
At this point, he had become an influential figure on the grid, known for his aggressive racing tactics and extremely successful races. Discussing the time when Schumacher shared his piece of expertise with Mick Schumacher and Max Verstappen, Jos mentioned that he would treat both children equally. He said (via F1 insider):
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"Michael didn't differentiate between Max and Mick. If he had something to say, he told them both. It’s quite possible that Max also benefited from these experiences. Max has a lot in common with Michael: uncompromising on the racetrack, but kind, sensitive and caring as a private person."
Max Verstappen, like Michael Schumacher, follows an aggressive racing technique. He has won four consecutive World Championships since 2021 with Red Bull Racing. He is set to continue with the team till 2028.
Christian Horner trusts Max Verstappen's "commitment" towards Red Bull
Red Bull's competitiveness against their competitors deteriorated in the 2024 season. The team fell to third place in the Constructors' Championship, albeit Verstappen won his fourth World Championship.
It was rumored that Max Verstappen might think of ending his term with the team despite their contract. This was also influenced by the fact that their aero wizard Adrian Newey announced his departure from the team earlier in the season. He will move to Aston Martin in 2025.
With RBR's future seemingly under question, it wouldn't be a surprise for Verstappen to leave the team. However, team principal Christian Horner is assured of his commitment. He said (via Autosport):
"Max has always been crystal clear with the team. His commitment has been unwavering. He enjoys the people that he trusts and the people that he works with and enjoys very much being a part of this team."
"Of course, with the talent that he has, I'm sure he's on every team principal’s Christmas wish list. That’s inevitable. But, as long as we can continue to provide him with a competitive car and an environment that he enjoys racing in, I don't see any desire for him to be anywhere else."
Max Verstappen will enter the 2025 F1 season with a new teammate, Liam Lawson. Sergio Perez's contract was terminated despite giving him a two-year extension earlier given his subpar performances in the last season.
