Schumacher Outlines Conditions for Max Verstappen to Surpass Lewis Hamilton’s Formula 1 Record

Schumacher Outlines Conditions for Max Verstappen to Surpass Lewis Hamilton’s Formula 1 Record

Ero Samson
updated at February 13, 2024 at 11:54 AM
  • Max Verstappen has dominated Formula through the 2023 season
  • The Red Bull driver recently sealed victory number 18 at the Las Vegas Grand Prix
  • A former Formula 1 driver touched on Verstappen breaking Lewis Hamilton’s record

Max Verstappen is enjoying a Formula 1 season that seems almost unreal, akin to a performance one might expect in a video game.

The Red Bull driver sweeping through 2023 has triumphed in 18 out of the 22 races held during the season.

Max Verstappen, Formula 1
Max Verstappen celebrates on the podium during the F1 Grand Prix of Las Vegas. Image: Jared C. Tilton.
Source: Getty Images

According to Racingnews365, the three-time F1 Champion has achieved a remarkable feat by setting a record for the highest winning percentage in a single season in the history of the sport.

This exceptional form and unprecedented dominance have led to widespread praise. Recently, former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher shared his insights in an interview with Sky Sports Germany, reflecting on the 26-year-old's remarkable achievements.

The 48-year-old, younger brother of seven-time Champion Michael Schumacher, discussed Red Bull's increasing competition from other teams. He also delved into the topic of Verstappen potentially breaking Lewis Hamilton's record for the most Drivers' Championships.

Schumacher on Verstappen and Red Bull

Regarding the competition closing in on Red Bull, the former Williams driver mentioned,

"Red Bull is facing some pressure. The teams have closed the gap, making the competition more exciting. With only one race left, I'm looking forward to seeing how it unfolds."

Asked about Verstappen's ability to surpass Hamilton's record, Schumacher responded affirmatively, saying,

"Definitely, in terms of age and talent. However, there are underlying questions: Does he want to continue driving for an extended period, and will he always have such a competitive car? I believe that will be the case next year; he just needs to ensure the team's continuity, particularly with Adrian Newey."

He acknowledged the theoretical possibility of Verstappen breaking the record but cautioned that unforeseen factors, such as rule changes or a decline in car performance, could impact the outcome. Drawing parallels to Hamilton's recent experiences, Schumacher emphasized the crucial role of the team and car in Formula 1 success.

It's worth noting that Verstappen's recent victory in Las Vegas has brought his total wins to 53, equaling Sebastian Vettel's record. He now sits just behind Michael Schumacher with 91 wins and Lewis Hamilton, who leads with 103 victories.

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Max Verstappen sets Formula 1 record

In a previous report, Sports Brief stated that Verstappen set a new Formula 1 record with his victory at the Autodrome Hermanos Rodriguez Circuit.

The Dutch driver, who had already broken the record for the most consecutive victories, added another milestone thanks to a commanding win on the night.

Verstappen will now shift his focus to the Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos, aiming to extend his record in what can only be described as a season's success.

Authors
Ero Samson photo
Ero Samson
Samson Ero is a sports journalist with a track record of over five years in the Nigerian media industry. He graduated from Nigerian Institute of Journalism (2021-2023).
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WorldMotorsportLewis Hamilton