Ex-F1 driver makes bold claim over rivals ‘fearing’ Max Verstappen

Former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer pointed out the fear factor of Max Verstappen in the minds of rivals on the grid.

Ex-F1 driver makes bold claim over rivals ‘fearing’ Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris (via The Times)

Max Verstappen has dominated Formula 1 since the start of the ground-effect era. The Dutch driver managed to win his fourth consecutive title last season. Now, former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer has reckoned that drivers are potentially afraid of Verstappen.

Palmer mentioned that the four-time world champion was undoubtedly an all-time great, such as the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Ayrton Senna. Verstappen pulled off a stellar campaign to defend his title in 2024 despite going winless for months due to Red Bull’s performance slump.

I think it’s hard to argue he’s not in the absolute top tier right now with the likes of Hamilton, Senna and Schumacher.

Jolyon Palmer for F1.com
YouTube video

The Briton emphasized that Max Verstappen‘s level of performance was simply staggering. The former Renault driver highlighted that 2024 was the most competitive season in the sport’s recent history, yet Verstappen seemingly instilled fear in the minds of his rivals.

FS Video

The level he is performing at is relentlessly formidable. In 2024 the field has never been more competitive, yet he’s managed to instill the fear factor into his rivals.

Jolyon Palmer explained

Max Verstappen has ‘no weakness’

Jolyon Palmer applauded Max Verstappen’s skills. He mentioned that the Dutch driver had the ability to do everything consistently. Moreover, the 33-year-old asserted that the reigning world champion simply had no weaknesses. Though, Palmer urged Verstappen to race more fairly in high-pressure situations after a controversial 2024 season.

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris (via IMAGO)
Lando Norris and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

In terms of ability he’s got everything and he’s consistent with it, there just aren’t any weaknesses. The only thing I’d personally like to see is him racing slightly fairer in the heat of a championship battle.

Jolyon Palmer added

Max Verstappen remains the driver to beat in 2025. The 27-year-old will leave no stone unturned to claim a fifth F1 world title. However, things will not be as easy for the Red Bull star with McLaren and Ferrari working around the clock over the winter break.