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Future F1 stars emerge: who can dethrone Max Verstappen as the next champion?

Carl Smith by Carl Smith
January 4, 2026
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
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Future F1 stars emerge: who can dethrone Max Verstappen as the next champion?

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - DECEMBER 07: Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrates on the podium during the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit on December 07, 2025 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202512070372 // Usage for editorial use only //

The Race for the Next Max Verstappen: Can F1’s Rookies Step Up?

In a thrilling revelation that has ignited debates across the F1 paddock, former team principal Guenther Steiner has boldly claimed that the next Max Verstappen could be lurking among the fresh faces of the 2025 season. With Verstappen dominating the circuit since his 2015 debut—boasting an astonishing 71 grand prix victories and four coveted championships—Steiner’s assertions raise the stakes for a new generation of talent vying for glory.

As the F1 landscape evolves, it’s clear that last year’s rookie class was nothing short of sensational. Drivers like Jack Doohan, Franco Colapinto, and Liam Lawson made headlines, with Lawson’s return to Racing Bulls after a stint with Red Bull igniting curiosity. The competition is fierce, and the pressure is mounting as these drivers gear up for the 2026 season. The spotlight will be particularly intense on Liam Lawson, who is set to race alongside Verstappen, while Colapinto aims to make waves after a solid performance with Williams.

Steiner, who steered the Haas team through turbulent waters, shared insights on the brightest prospects who could potentially fill Verstappen’s shoes. “It’s too early to say,” he admitted, yet he couldn’t hide his enthusiasm for the new talent. Among them, he highlighted Oliver Bearman, Kimi Antonelli, Isack Hadjar, and Gabriel Bortoleto as drivers capable of making a significant impact. “There have definitely been some promising performances,” he stated, indicating a bright future for these competitors.

Bearman, who is already being touted as a future Ferrari ace, may have the clearest path ahead. Meanwhile, Bortoleto’s performance was initially overshadowed by his uncompetitive car, but Steiner noted, “As soon as the car improved, he showed what he’s capable of.” This is a clear call to all aspiring champions that the right conditions can lead to greatness.

Steiner’s analysis goes deeper, emphasizing the critical nature of the upcoming seasons. “Now we’ll see who has what it takes to reach the very top,” he warned. The second and third seasons are vital for these budding stars to establish themselves in the unforgiving world of Formula 1. With the ever-present threat of new talent ready to seize opportunities, the pressure is on for these rookies to deliver.

The battle is not just about personal glory; it’s about legacy. “A talent like Max Verstappen doesn’t come along very often,” Steiner acknowledged, setting a high bar for potential successors. As fans and pundits speculate on who might rise to the occasion, the reality remains: if these rookies fail to perform, they risk being overshadowed by the next wave of exceptional drivers.

Who will emerge as the true successor to Verstappen’s throne? The answer lies in the upcoming seasons, where the track becomes the ultimate proving ground. As the gears of F1 continue to turn, all eyes will be on this new generation of racers—will they rise to the occasion or fade into obscurity? The countdown to the 2026 season has begun, and the race for greatness is officially on!

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2019-red-bull-crandon-world-cup2025-season2025-williams-grove-speedway-lawrence-chevrolet-410-sprint-car-seriesJack Doohanliam-lawson-2max-verstappen-enracing-bulls-2
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