Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 World Champion, began his unparalleled racing career by dominating the karting circuit, securing numerous national championships in Belgium and the Netherlands between 2005 and 2009. He achieved an unprecedented feat in 2013, winning three CIK-FIA championships in a single season, including the prestigious KZ World Championship. His rapid ascent continued into 2014, competing in the FIA Formula 3 European Championship with Van Amersfoort Racing, where he secured 10 victories and finished third overall. The same year, Verstappen made history as the youngest person to participate in a Formula One race weekend, transitioning to Toro Rosso.

In 2015, he further broke records as the youngest driver to start a World Championship race and score points in Formula One, earning him FIA’s ‘Rookie of the Year,’ ‘Personality of the Year,’ and ‘Action of the Year’ awards. Verstappen’s career took a significant turn in 2016 when he was promoted to Red Bull Racing. In his debut race for the team at the Spanish Grand Prix, he became the youngest-ever Formula One Grand Prix winner, an immediate testament to his exceptional talent. Over the subsequent years, he consistently demonstrated his prowess, securing multiple wins and podium finishes from 2017 to 2018, and showcasing clear dominance over his teammates in the 2019-2020 seasons.

His season was highlighted by exceptional performances in demanding conditions, notably a wet-weather masterclass at the São Paulo Grand Prix. This consistent high-level achievement led to his inclusion in the prestigious Time 100 list in 2024 as one of the most influential people globally. Verstappen’s career continues to be defined by remarkable consistency, raw speed, and an unwavering drive to win, solidifying his status as one of Formula One’s all-time greats.