Departing Red Bull mechanic spills the beans on Max Verstappen

Ole Schack will bring his career in Formula 1 to an end after the Brazilian Grand Prix later today (Sunday November 8), bringing an end to his time with Red Bull Racing.

The team's number two mechanic for four-time world champion Max Verstappen has decided to step away from the sport to spend more time with his family, but not before reflecting on the remarkable qualities that make the Dutchman such a special driver.

Schack will not be moving to a rival team, instead choosing to prioritise his personal life after years of travelling extensively with Red Bull. Speaking ahead of his final race, the mechanic explained that he felt the time was right to take a step back.

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A consistent routine - with one notable exception

"I miss my family and I want to give something back to them, because I've obviously been a little selfish by being away so much," he told Dutch outlet De Telegraaf.

During his time working on Verstappen's car, Schack developed a strict routine in the garage, particularly on Saturdays. He explained that qualifying sessions were always the most intense part of a race weekend, but that sticking to the same procedures helped him identify even the smallest potential problems.

"I always do the same thing, everywhere and every week. That's the best way for me to work. You immediately notice if something isn't right, for example if a seatbelt isn't properly secured," Schack explained.

By following the same procedures every weekend, small issues could be identified and dealt with more quickly.

There was, however, one notable occasion when he had to abandon his usual routine. That came at the 2020 Hungarian Grand Prix, when Verstappen crashed during the formation lap and Red Bull's mechanics were forced into a remarkable repair job on the starting grid.

"I only missed it once, apart from the three races I was absent for, and that was in Hungary in 2020. I was busy with other things..." he recalled.

Verstappen shows a different side when it matters most

Having worked closely with Verstappen, Schack has witnessed first-hand how the four-time world champion handles pressure away from the cockpit - and how his mentality changes when it is time to deliver.

The mechanic highlighted the remarkable contrast between Verstappen's relaxed personality outside the car and his intense focus during the decisive moments of qualifying.

"Max is an incredibly relaxed guy when he's not in the car. He enjoys having a laugh and is great to be around. But then qualifying comes around, particularly Q3, and that's when it really matters.

"It's that one lap that can make all the difference. I see a different look in Max's eyes compared to a practice session on Friday. He goes all-in, and that's when all his talent comes out," Schack explained.

According to the departing mechanic, Verstappen possesses qualities that very few other drivers on the grid can match.

He pointed to the Dutchman's early performances, including that remarkable debut win in Barcelona in 2016, when he held off Kimi Räikkönen, as well as his impressive drive to third place in the wet conditions in Brazil.

Verstappen has a natural ability which cannot be taught

"He's like Ronaldo and Messi, but in a Formula 1 car. Max has that little bit extra that you simply cannot teach someone," he said.

Although his departure from Formula 1 is an emotional moment, Schack says his overriding feeling is one of gratitude towards Red Bull.

Looking ahead to his final weekend working in the garage, the mechanic reflected positively on his time with the Austrian team and everything he has experienced along the way.

"I'm proud to have been part of this team, through all the ups and downs. That final time will be special, but above all, I realise how much I owe Red Bull," he said.

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