For years, Jos Verstappen was the architect behind his son Max’s meteoric rise to Formula 1 stardom. From grueling training sessions to intense race-day coaching, the elder Verstappen played a hands-on role in molding his son into the ruthless competitor we see today. But as Max embarks on his 11th season in F1, the three-time world champion’s dynamic with his father is evolving—and Jos is finally stepping back.
A father’s grip loosens: Max takes full control
Max Verstappen’s journey to the pinnacle of motorsport was anything but conventional. His record-breaking debut at just 17 years old in 2015 made history, but behind that milestone was a childhood built on rigorous discipline and relentless training under the watchful eye of Jos.
Speaking on the Op De Rallykoffie podcast, Jos Verstappen acknowledged that his involvement in Max’s career has gradually faded, as the Red Bull superstar now manages his own path with a level of confidence and maturity that only comes with years at the top.
“Of course, I am still involved with Max. It’s less than before, but in the early years of his career, I gave him direction—even in Formula 1—and that has worked out.”
However, despite stepping away from the day-to-day operations of his son’s career, Jos still maintains a critical role: being Max’s harshest and most honest critic.
“Now, he is old and wise enough to handle things himself. But I think I am still the one who tells him honestly what is going well and what isn’t—and he appreciates that too.”
It’s a role that Verstappen Sr. believes is essential, even for the most dominant driver on the grid. While Red Bull’s empire showers Max with praise and adoration, Jos ensures that his son remains grounded.
The Verstappen legacy: A dynasty in motion
Max Verstappen is no longer the raw, fiery teenager that burst onto the F1 scene. As he gears up for his 210th Grand Prix start at the 2025 Australian GP on March 16, he is now a seasoned warrior at the peak of his powers, chasing a fifth consecutive world title with the number one emblazoned on his car.
His father, meanwhile, has found a new passion: rally racing. The former Benetton and Arrows F1 driver has pivoted to an entirely different motorsport discipline, but make no mistake—his mind is still laser-focused on Max’s relentless pursuit of victory.
“I always have his best interests at heart, and of course, we want to win everything. Criticism is part of that. And besides rallying, that’s actually my life. Everything revolves around racing.”
Max Verstappen: No longer under the shadow of his father
The transformation of Max Verstappen from a father-guided prodigy to an independent motorsport icon is a testament to the unparalleled work ethic instilled in him from childhood. But with Jos now taking a backseat, the question remains—can Max thrive without the constant presence of the man who built him?
Given the Dutchman’s ironclad grip on the F1 championship in recent years, the answer seems clear. Yet, in a sport where margins are razor-thin and dominance is never guaranteed, the elder Verstappen’s brutally honest feedback may still be the secret ingredient in his son’s continued reign.
As Max chases his fifth world title in 2025, one thing is certain: he may be driving alone, but his father’s influence will always be riding shotgun.
