Max Verstappen F1 GOAT claim made by former Formula 1 world champion

Max Verstappen, Red Bull, Bahrain, 2024 — Photo: © IMAGO

F1 News & Gossip

F1 champion makes HUGE Verstappen GOAT claim

Mika Hakkinen is aware that Verstappen needs all the components around him to work well

By Shay Rogers.

Sunday 25 February 2024 00:00

Mika Hakkinen has pointed out that there are many factors besides Max Verstappen with regards to Red Bull winning world championships in Formula 1 - but believes the reigning champion can become the GOAT.

The Dutchman is aiming for a fourth consecutive drivers’ title in 2024, which would put him just three behind Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton before turning 27 years old.

Should he manage to achieve a fourth and more within the next few seasons, conversations surrounding his legacy and image as the greatest of all time will continue to grow with his domination.

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In order for him to achieve this though, the entire operation surrounding him must operate like clockwork - something that Red Bull have been able to provide for a while and that, Hakkinen insists, shouldn’t be underestimated.

Max Verstappen won 19 of the 22 grands prix on offer in 2023

Max Verstappen shares a moment with Lando Norris, whom he grew up karting against before reaching F1

Hakkinen: It’s not just Max

“He is well on his way. But you shouldn't be too hasty here either,” the Finn told German periodical Bild. “What Max has achieved in the past few years is incredible.

“But to even catch up with the world titles, he needs four more. Max has the talent to become the best of all time, but it's not just him.

“Team boss, car, pit crew, management – everything has to be right. That was the case with Lewis and Michael. That's why they were able to shape an era.”

Red Bull Max Verstappen Lewis Hamilton Formula 1 Michael Schumacher Mika Hakkinen