As Max Verstappen is on the cusp of clinching his third successive drivers’ title, the erstwhile F1 czar, Bernie Ecclestone, has hailed him as the finest driver in history.
Historically, the nonagenarian has championed Ayrton Senna as an evident legend but always held Alain Prost in the highest esteem as the greatest of all time.
His rationale revolved around the idea that Prost showcased his prowess in an era where drivers weren’t inundated with extensive team backing both on the circuit and off it.
“But if you forget that, max is without a doubt the best I’ve seen – and that everyone else has seen too,” Ecclestone communicated to DPA.
“He’s the complete racing driver.”
The distinctiveness of Verstappen, according to Ecclestone, lies in his unwavering determination.
“He starts the race and wants to win it. He doesn’t do anything else,” said Ecclestone.
“He doesn’t make any mistakes, he doesn’t do anything, he doesn’t take any liberties.”
Ecclestone further countered the narrative suggesting Verstappen’s impulsiveness.
“He drives honestly and fairly,” he insisted.
Looking ahead, particularly as the ‘ground effect’ rules conclude after 2025, Ecclestone is confident in Verstappen’s continued ascendancy.
“Even in a car that isn’t the best, Max would beat a lot of people,” he said. “He’s a superstar. There has never been anyone as good as Max is today.”
