When it comes to crowning moments in his son’s illustrious career, Jos Verstappen says nothing will ever surpass the drama of Max Verstappen’s first Formula 1 World Championship victory in 2021.
On that unforgettable night in Abu Dhabi, Max clinched the title in the most dramatic fashion imaginable, overtaking Lewis Hamilton on the very last lap after a controversial Safety Car restart. Speaking to F1-Insider, Jos reflected on the emotions of that day and why it remains unparalleled, despite his son now being a four-time world champion.
“The First Title Is Always the Best”
Verstappen Sr. was unequivocal in declaring the 2021 championship as the pinnacle of Max’s career so far, regardless of the subsequent success.
“Every title is special and valuable – the best is always the first,” Jos said. “Abu Dhabi 2021 was very special. When you win the title on the last lap, you’ll never forget it. Toto Wolff and Lewis Hamilton won’t like that.”
The 2021 finale remains one of the most polarizing moments in F1 history, with former race director Michael Masi’s controversial decision allowing lapped cars to unlap themselves just before the Safety Car restart. This decision gave Max, on fresher tires, the perfect opportunity to pass Hamilton, sparking protests and ongoing frustrations from Mercedes.
However, for Jos, the controversy takes nothing away from the triumph. Instead, he treasures the memories of sharing that emotional milestone with his son.
“I remember sitting in the pits with my son shortly after the race, and we reviewed his career in fast-forward,” Jos recalled. “It was an extremely beautiful and emotional moment for both of us.”
Max’s Resilience in 2024
While the first title will always hold the top spot for Jos, he acknowledged Max’s exceptional performances in the 2024 season, which proved to be far more challenging than his dominant campaigns in 2022 and 2023. Driving a car that was no longer the best on the grid, Verstappen had to push his RB20 to the absolute limit to maintain his edge.
“He was also extremely good in 2023,” Jos noted. “But 2024 was more difficult because the car wasn’t the best in the field, and he always had to drive at the limit – without making mistakes. He did that extremely well.”
Jos highlighted how Max’s ability to elevate himself above the competition stood out more than ever during a challenging year. “People have noticed that Max can make the difference compared to others,” he said.
A Rain-Soaked Masterpiece in São Paulo
When reflecting on the standout moment of Max’s 2024 season, Jos pointed to his son’s sensational drive in the wet at the São Paulo Grand Prix. Starting from the back of the grid in treacherous conditions, Max showcased his unrivaled skill, carving through the field as if the rain didn’t exist.
“His race in the pouring rain in São Paulo naturally stands out,” Jos said. “It was easy to make a mistake, but Max simply drove as if the rain hadn’t happened. That was special.”
Building a Legacy Beyond the First Championship
Since his 2021 triumph, Max Verstappen has solidified his place in the history books, becoming only the fifth driver to win four consecutive F1 titles and joining the likes of Red Bull legend Sebastian Vettel. Yet for Jos, nothing will ever compare to the raw, heart-stopping excitement of that first championship on the last lap in Abu Dhabi.
As Max continues to rewrite records, one thing is clear: for the Verstappens, the journey that began on that unforgettable night in 2021 remains the defining chapter of a glittering career.