Jos Verstappen, father of the reigning Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen, has had a significant impact on his son’s racing career influence through his strict and sometimes controversial approach. The 53-year-old’s stern attitude and no-nonsense methods helped shape Max into one of the most formidable drivers in the sport today, despite generating criticism along the way.
Throughout Max’s rise with Red Bull Racing, Jos has been known to create tension within the team, particularly with team principal Christian Horner. The relationship between Jos and Horner has been marked by multiple confrontations, fueling rumors that Jos played a role in Max Verstappen and other key figures at Red Bull pushing for Horner’s removal. This off-track drama underscores the profound influence Jos holds over decisions impacting Max’s career.
A Candid Perspective on Jos Verstappen’s Character and Influence
Gino Rosato, a Canadian F1 insider closely associated with Ferrari, offered an unfiltered description of Jos Verstappen’s personality, calling him a “pure, pure thug” who does not shy away from confrontation and rarely worries about repercussions. Rosato’s blunt appraisal reflects Jos’s reputation for being direct and unyielding, especially when protecting his son’s interests.
Jos is a pure, pure thug. Don’t f**k around with Jos.
—Gino Rosato, F1 Insider
Despite the sharp critique, Rosato acknowledged Jos’s honesty and old-school mentality, which contributed to developing Max into a “beast” on the Formula 1 grid. He emphasized that Jos’s tough upbringing was instrumental in Max’s relentless drive and dominance in the sport.
He’s a pure guy, he’s an honest guy, it’s old school, and what are you going to tell him? You did bad? You created the biggest beast on the face of Formula 1, or one of them for sure.
—Gino Rosato, F1 Insider
Drawing Parallels Between Max Verstappen and Kimi Raikkonen’s Approach
Max Verstappen’s no-nonsense racing style and straightforward personality have led many to compare him to Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari’s last world champion and a driver famous for his stoic demeanor. Having worked closely with Raikkonen at Ferrari, Rosato highlighted similarities between the two drivers while also noting their distinct differences in temperament.
According to Rosato, Max is “very similar” to Raikkonen in terms of purity of character, although the Dutchman is more openly expressive and “spicy” compared to Raikkonen’s silent suffering. Max is willing to lash out occasionally but remains approachable and loyal to those who earn his respect, responding quickly to messages from longtime acquaintances.
Max is pure, very similar, extremely similar to Kimi. He’s a bit more spicy, a bit more open-minded than he is. Kimi will suffer in silence, whereas this one will lash out once in a while. But, just a gentle, I can text Max right now, and he’s gonna answer me back within two minutes.
—Gino Rosato, F1 Insider
Jos Verstappen’s Enduring Role in Max’s Ongoing Racing Journey
Although Jos Verstappen’s strict methods have been controversial and sometimes criticized, his influence is widely credited with molding Max’s competitive spirit and resilience. As Max continues to break records and pursue further success, Jos remains closely involved in assessing his son’s career decisions and providing guidance during uncertain moments.
Max Verstappen, now a four-time world champion, has many competitive years ahead, and the dynamic between father and son will likely continue to play a vital role in shaping his legacy within Formula 1.
