Former Formula 1 driver, Jos Verstappen, has caught the rally racing fever, and he’s convinced his son, Max Verstappen, will also be smitten if he ventures into the sport. According to Jos, the thrill of rallying could lure Max away from his current career in Formula 1.
Speculation has been rife about what path Max Verstappen, the celebrated Formula 1 driver, may tread post his stint in the high-octane motor sport. His father, Jos, is of the opinion that rallying could be an exciting alternative for Max if he decides to explore it.
Max Verstappen has never hidden his desire to diversify his racing experience and has hinted at participating in other series in the future. However, the idea of a full-time career in rally racing hasn’t crossed his mind yet. Jos Verstappen, on the other hand, is confident that his son would be enamored by the sport if he gave it a shot.
Jos shared his thoughts with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, stating, “Max isn’t interested in rally racing at the moment. But I am certain that if he ever decides to try this, he will be sold.” He further explained the unique thrill of rally racing, saying, “In rally, you have a test each time, and then you have to recharge. It gives me an adrenaline rush 12 times in one day. In Formula 1, that adrenaline rush is experienced only once, right before the start. That’s what makes this sport so beautiful.”
Jos Verstappen, who bid adieu to Formula 1 in 2003 to focus on grooming his son, has lately been spending more time outside home, exploring his newfound passion for rallying. His experience in rally racing has evolved over the last three years, transforming from a hobby into a serious pursuit.
Reflecting on his rally racing journey, Jos said, “The bar is much higher now than when I started three years ago. I have gained a lot more experience and understand the environment better. Initially, I didn’t expect to be competing at the front so quickly. Had I been stuck at the fifth or sixth place even now, I would have continued taking it as a hobby. But this year, it’s more than just a hobby. My goal is to win this championship.”
As the speculation around Max Verstappen’s future in motor sports continues, the insights from Jos Verstappen provide a fascinating glimpse into the thrilling world of rally racing and its potential to captivate even accomplished Formula 1 drivers.