In a recent interview that resonated across Formula 1, former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone, age 95, made headlines by boldly affirming his belief that Max Verstappen is the greatest driver the sport has ever seen. Ecclestone’s candid remarks also cast a critical shadow over McLaren’s Lando Norris, emphasizing the issue of Lando Norris under pressure as a deciding factor in elite racing success.
Having witnessed decades of F1 history, Ecclestone didn’t hold back in expressing his admiration for Verstappen’s track dominance and mental fortitude.
“I still believe Max will make it; he deserves it,”
said Ecclestone, referencing Verstappen’s pursuit of yet another world title. He further reinforced his ranking by stating,
“In the past, I considered Alain Prost the greatest, but now I believe Max is the best I’ve ever known.”
These statements directly compare the legacy of iconic names such as Alain Prost to the current exploits of the Dutch star.
Norris Under Scrutiny for Nerves on the Track
While the spotlight often shines on Norris’s impressive performances for McLaren, Ecclestone delivered a harsh assessment of the young British driver’s character under stress. According to the former chief, Norris lacks the blend of composure and determination required to perform at the same level as Verstappen when the stakes are highest.
“In crucial moments, he gets nervous and fails to deliver when the heat is on, unlike Max,”
Ecclestone remarked, drawing a parallel between Norris and his rival.
Ecclestone’s critique did not end with Norris’s on-track struggles. He voiced concerns about McLaren’s team strategy, suggesting that Norris was being given preferential treatment compared to his teammate Oscar. The incident at Monza, where Norris was permitted to swap positions with Oscar following a slow pit stop, became a focal point for Ecclestone’s argument.
“McLaren has been too accommodating to Lando at the expense of Oscar. Take Monza, for instance, where he was allowed to swap positions after a slow pit stop. That’s not how racing works; you have to accept it and not manipulate the outcome,”
asserted Ecclestone.
Verstappen Favored to Secure Another World Title
With the season intensifying, Ecclestone’s words carry significant weight in the paddock, especially given his previous role steering the sport’s direction. As he anticipates the conclusion of another dramatic F1 season, the former executive made it clear that he has little doubt about how the championship race will unfold.
“You can never bet against Max. I hope he finishes the job; he is special and one of a kind.”
This unwavering confidence echoes through the world of motorsport, keeping Verstappen’s name at the forefront of the title conversation.
As Formula 1 approaches its critical stages, fans and observers alike will be monitoring both Verstappen’s relentless drive and whether Lando Norris can answer his critics when under pressure. With the likes of Fernando Alonso, Adrian Sutil, and Oscar also playing their part in a high-stakes season, the outcome promises to shape ongoing debates about racing greatness and the future of new talents in the sport.
