F1 icon declares Max Verstappen’s incredible run ‘disturbing’ rivals
Former Le Mans winner Jacky Ickx stays in constant touch with Max Verstappen to praise his achievements in Formula 1.
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Lando Norris and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)
Max Verstappen has dominated Formula 1 in the ground-effect era. The Dutch driver won his fourth consecutive world title in 2024 despite having a difficult campaign. Now, racing legend Jacky Ickx has applauded the Red Bull star’s impressive performances.
Ickx revealed that he stays in touch with Verstappen courtesy of the latter’s continuous achievements in Formula 1. The Le Mans winner recalled Max Verstappen’s stellar victory in Brazil, highlighting that when a driver dominates a series in such a manner, it becomes disturbing for the competition.
Max is part of those people who have [so many achievements]. We exchange [messages] from time to time. Short messages. For example, the race he did in Brazil. The drama when you win too often, when you dominate a series, it becomes disturbing.
Jacky Ickx told RacingNews365
Jacky Ickx pointed out that the four-time world champion was essentially punishing his rivals on-track due to his staggering results. Subsequently, people start to dislike the Red Bull driver, as the result of a race becomes clear even before the cars have hit the track. As was the case during Verstappen’s historic 2023 campaign.
You punish [drivers], people start to dislike you because you know the result of the race before the start, because you dominate things.
Jacky Ickx stated
Max Verstappen’s ‘love level’ increased in 2024
The F1 icon emphasized that Max Verstappen became more emotional during the 2024 campaign, with a notable increase in his ‘love level.’ Ickx claimed that when a driver wins the race from the back of the grid, it becomes a really special victory, which is cherished by all viewers. On the other hand, a race won from pole might not win over many fans.
So amazingly, his love level has increased in an unbelievable way. And he says, yes, it was plenty of emotions. Because when you start last and you win, people love that.
Jacky Ickx added
Max Verstappen will now be shifting focus onto the upcoming season. The four-time world champion wants to start the year strong and fight for the title yet again. However, Red Bull will need to ensure it has a good car which can stay ahead of the likes of McLaren and Ferrari.
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Armaan Agarwal
(2382 Articles Published)