Verstappen ‘single-handedly saved F1’, claims ex-team manager

Max Verstappen has undoubtedly had a huge impact on Formula 1 in the Netherlands, but former team manager Graham Watson believes the Dutchman saved Formula 1 as a whole.

Former AlphaTauri team manager Graham Watson believes Max Verstappen “single-handedly saved Formula 1” thanks to his focus. Verstappen made his F1 debut with Toro Rosso in 2015 before quickly moving to Red Bull, where he would go on to win three World Championships.
The Dutchman held several F1 records during his time with the Milton Keynes team and is currently behind only Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher in all-time wins. During Schumacher’s successful tenure at Ferrari, German fans saw packed stands at various European events.
Watson, who worked with Verstappen during the F1 season, said the Dutchman had a similar impact during his time in the sport. “Max is the best thing that ever happened to Formula 1,” he told Verstappen.nl.
“When Max left us for Red Bull, I compared him to Michael Schumacher going to Ferrari. He made Formula 1 very popular at the time.
“Look at the old photos from Hockenheim and Spa: the stands full of Schumacher flags. I think Max single-handedly saved Formula 1.
“Because it brings the same intensity and emotion. People flock to Austrian spas, resorts and practically everywhere.
“I’ve never seen anything like this, not even in Schumacher’s time. My wife is 60 years old and a huge Max fan. Because his style creates tension on the pitch. Max will bring a whole new audience to Formula 1.”

Verstappen’s first title came in 2021 after a season-long battle with Mercedes’ Hamilton.
Watson, a seven-time world champion, is considered one of the sport’s most iconic figures, but for different reasons. “Lewis Hamilton is very talented, but people are too worried about whether or not he is a Formula 1 driver.
“It’s connected to a lot of other things. Lewis Hamilton is a brand and Max Verstappen is a Formula 1 driver. And that will not change. “I’m not saying what Hamilton is doing is wrong, but he’s not as stupid as Max. If those people aren’t in a car, they’re in a simulator or a go-kart. “He’s always trying to improve.”