Jos Verstappen, father of four-time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen, has ignited controversy by naming Abu Dhabi 2021 as the pinnacle of his son’s illustrious career. A statement unlikely to sit well with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff or former Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, Jos’s verdict revisits one of the most contentious moments in modern F1 history.
Abu Dhabi 2021: A Controversial Milestone
The 2021 Formula 1 season delivered one of the sport’s greatest rivalries. Seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton faced a relentless challenge from Max Verstappen, who had finally been equipped with a Red Bull capable of fighting for the title.
Both drivers entered the Abu Dhabi finale tied on points, a rare occurrence in F1 history. In a race marred by the controversial decisions of then-race director Michael Masi, Verstappen clinched his first World Championship with a last-lap pass on Hamilton. The fallout was immense, with debates about fairness overshadowing the achievement. For Jos, however, this race remains unmatched in significance.
“Abu Dhabi 2021 was very special,” Jos told F1-Insider. “When you win the title on the last lap, you’ll never forget it. It was an extremely emotional moment for both of us.”
A Legacy Built on Dominance
While Abu Dhabi 2021 was the launching pad for Verstappen’s era of dominance, his career since has been marked by unparalleled consistency. The Dutchman secured four consecutive World Championships, most recently fending off McLaren’s Lando Norris in a fiercely competitive 2024 season.
Reflecting on Max’s evolution, Jos acknowledged his son’s ability to push the limits even under challenging conditions. “In 2024, the car wasn’t the best in the field, and Max always had to drive at the limit without making mistakes. That’s what sets him apart,” Jos stated.
Brazil 2024: A Drive for the Ages
The Sao Paulo Grand Prix of 2024 stood out as one of Verstappen’s most iconic performances. Starting from P17 in torrential rain, Verstappen delivered a flawless drive to claim victory. Jos singled out this race as the highlight of Max’s season.
“In Sao Paulo, the conditions were extremely difficult, and it was easy to make a mistake,” Jos explained. “But Max drove as if the rain hadn’t happened. That was special.”
This victory effectively ended Norris’s title hopes, with Verstappen securing his fourth championship at the following race in Las Vegas.
Looking Ahead: Verstappen’s New Chapter in F1 2025
As Red Bull prepares for the 2025 season, Verstappen will be joined by a new teammate, Liam Lawson, who replaces Sergio Perez. Lawson’s promotion from Racing Bulls signals Red Bull’s commitment to nurturing young talent alongside their established star.
With F1 continuing to evolve and competitors like McLaren and Ferrari closing the gap, the question remains: can Verstappen maintain his dominance in the face of mounting challenges?
Jos Verstappen’s Verdict: A Divisive Perspective
By naming Abu Dhabi 2021 as Max’s career-defining moment, Jos reignites debates surrounding one of F1’s most polarizing races. The Verstappen camp celebrates it as the culmination of Max’s grit and determination, while critics view it as a tainted victory shaped by external factors.
Whether one agrees with Jos or not, his statement underscores the emotional weight and complexity of that fateful race. For Max Verstappen, it’s a memory etched in glory—and for the F1 world, a moment that will forever stir debate.
Conclusion: The Making of an F1 Legend
Max Verstappen’s journey from the controversial triumph of Abu Dhabi 2021 to his rain-soaked brilliance in Brazil 2024 reflects a driver who thrives under pressure. While his father’s views may ruffle feathers, they also highlight the extraordinary career of a driver shaping F1 history.
As the sport looks to the future, Verstappen’s legacy remains a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence, even in the face of controversy.
