Once doubtful, Max Verstappen’s potential is now undeniable to all, including his former skeptics at Force India.
- Verstappen’s early days were marked by numerous on-track errors and aggressive driving behaviors.
- Despite high expectations from Red Bull, many in Force India were not convinced of his championship future.
- Bernie Collins recalls internal debates doubting Verstappen’s maturity and skill.
- Fast forward, Verstappen is now celebrated for his composed and strategic driving.
In the world of Formula 1, Max Verstappen is a name that resonates as one of the sport’s most formidable talents. However, this wasn’t always the case. Bernie Collins, a former race strategist for Force India, shared that her team initially doubted Verstappen’s potential to become a world champion. Back in the early days of his career, Verstappen’s aggressive driving style and a tendency to make mistakes clouded his then-unproven abilities.
When Verstappen was signed to Toro Rosso in 2015, his path bypassed Formula 2, launching him straight into the limelight of international motorsport. The Red Bull management, particularly Helmut Marko and Christian Horner, saw him as a prodigy. Yet, the risks associated with his unrefined approach raised eyebrows even within his own team. His driving was characterized by late braking and frequent contact with other cars, leading to skepticism about his ability to harness his raw speed into consistent performance.
Midway through the 2016 season, Verstappen’s career took a significant turn when he joined Red Bull Racing. He quickly validated his supporters’ faith by winning his first race with the new team. As he continued to evolve, engineer Adrian Newey crafted a racing machine that complemented Verstappen’s growing skills. This synergy eventually led to a series of championships from 2021 to 2024, ultimately silencing his naysayers.
Bernie Collins’ account on the Indo Sport Podcast gives insight into the skepticism surrounding those early years. She recalls hearing comments from team members doubting Verstappen’s capability of clinching a championship. ‘The Max of old…was making a lot of mistakes, very aggressive, not putting the best together,’ Collins noted. But what followed was a transformation that saw Verstappen refine his style, bringing maturity and calm to his racing approach.
Today, Verstappen’s skill and composure have set a new standard. His journey from the fiery rookie to a strategic champion reflects a significant evolution. His ability to remain composed under pressure and avoid unnecessary risks has been pivotal to his growth. Collins acknowledges this shift, stating, ‘Now he’s matured to the point of being calm…and that’s what’s making him a great driver.’
Verstappen’s journey from a criticized rookie to a world champion is a testament to his evolution and resilience.
