Max Verstappen reveals father Jos Verstappen didn’t ‘push him’ to start karting as a kid
Max Verstappen asserts that his parents did not force him to pursue racing, despite being racers themselves.
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Max Verstappen and Jos Verstappen (Via IMAGO)
Max Verstappen comes from a family of racers. His father, Jos Verstappen, competed in Formula 1 from 1994 to 2003, racing for several teams, including Benetton, Simtek, and Minardi. His mother, Sophie Kumpen, also has a racing background; she competed in karting. Their passion for motorsports likely inspired Verstappen Jr to pursue karting at a young age. However, the 26-year-old claims he was not forced to start his career in karting.
Max Verstappen narrates his story about starting his karting journey during a conversation with the media. He recalls that when he was only four years old, he saw another kid, even younger than him, driving a mini-kart. This sight excited the Dutchman, and he wanted to try it himself. When he approached his father, Jos Verstappen, to express his desire to drive a kart, his father initially refused.
Jos Verstappen believed that his son was too young to drive and thought he needed to grow a bit more before starting. He was also worried that letting his four-year old drive could lead to accidents, as his young age meant he could potentially hurt himself.
I was four years old and saw a kid younger than me already driving a mini-kart. I went to my father and told him I wanted to do it too, but he initially said no. He said I needed to grow up a bit.
Max Verstappen told GQ Italia
After months of insisting, Max Verstappen finally received his first kart, thanks to his mother’s encouragement. Sophie Kumpen, who began her own racing journey at a young age influenced the 27-year-old to try karting. She convinced her husband to support their son’s desire for a kart.
Unlike many parents who push their children into activities they may not enjoy, the 26-year-old felt lucky because neither of his parents pressured him to pursue racing. They recognized his passion and supported him on his journey. With both parents being racers, Verstappen junior benefited from their knowledge and encouragement as he started his racing career.
I see so many parents pushing their young children towards something. My parents fortunately didn’t: when they noticed that I really liked it, they helped me get better. I admit I was very lucky because racing was also their passion.
Max Verstappen stated.
Max Verstappen explains the different role his parents played in his life
Max Verstappen explains that his parents have different personalities when it comes to racing. He spent a lot of time with his father, who was very involved in his racing career. Jos Verstappen acted as his mechanic, built his engines, and taught him how to race. However, the atmosphere with his mother, Sophie Kumpen, was much more relaxed.
She didn’t advise him about how to race and how he should win unlike Verstappen senior. Instead of telling him how to take a corner, she supported him in a more laid-back way.
They are two different people, that’s true. With my father, I spent a lot of time because we travelled for races: he was my mechanic, he built my engines and he was also my teacher. With my mother, the atmosphere was much more relaxed. She was always positive.
Max Verstappen explained.
In today’s world, many parents encourage their children to pursue careers they believe are beneficial, often overlooking their kids’ passions. Choosing a career in racing carries high risks, as success is not guaranteed. However, traditional full-time jobs provide more financial security, leading parents to favor these safer options for their children.
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Gaurang Kadam
(535 Articles Published)