Max Verstappen names two drivers he would sign as an F1 team boss

Max Verstappen revealed his driver picks if the Dutchman was to lead an F1 team.

Max Verstappen names two drivers he would sign as an F1 team boss

Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen has established himself as an all-time great in Formula 1. The Dutch driver has showcased his brilliance on track in 2023 with a historic title-winning campaign. However, the three-time world champion recognizes the talent of his peers on the grid. Now, Verstappen revealed two drivers he would like to have as an F1 Team Principal.

The reigning world champion picked McLaren’s driver pairing of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. The Dutchman reckoned that the duo were talented drivers. Max Verstappen pointed out that Norris was older than his rookie teammate and had more experience in the sport. However, the 26-year-old insisted that the latter was an impressive young driver.

I would choose Lando and Oscar. Both are good. Lando is just a bit older than Oscar. I think Oscar is a fast rookie.
Max Verstappen told Auto Motor und Sport

Verstappen admitted that Oscar Piastri still had a long way to go in F1. The Australian driver would need to learn several lessons during his career and work on his race pace. Nevertheless, Max Verstappen was convinced that Piastri was a clever driver who would certainly go on to win races at the pinnacle of motorsport.

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He [Oscar Piastri] still has things to learn, can improve in terms of race pace. But from what I see, he's a clever guy. He will win his races.

Can Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri challenge Max Verstappen in 2024?

McLaren made the most progress over the course of the 2023 season. The Woking-based team struggled in the first half of the year. However, a major upgrade package turned the tide for the British squad. With Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri becoming a regular contender in the Top 10 along with a handful of podium finishes.

Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, Oscar Piastri Post-Qualifying at the British GP (image via Autosport)
Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, Oscar Piastri Post-Qualifying at the British GP (image via Autosport)

Certainly, McLaren has high ambitions for the upcoming F1 season. The Woking-based team hopes to potentially challenge Max Verstappen and Red Bull for the championship. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri delivered some impressive races this season, including Piastri’s incredible drive to take the Sprint victory at the Qatar GP.

However, things would not be easy for the Woking-based team. Red Bull has been working extensively to build on its pace advantage for 2024. With rivals such as Ferrari and Mercedes aiming to make massive progress over the winter. As such, it remains to be seen if Max Verstappen will face a fight from the McLaren pairing this year.

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