Max Verstappen’s mother has detailed her role in making the two-time Formula 1 World Champion one of the most successful drivers of his generation.
Verstappen became the youngest driver in grand prix history when he made his debut as a 17-year-old in 2015, with his performances for Toro Rosso earning him a promotion to Red Bull after just four races of the following season.
After memorably winning on debut for the team at Barcelona in 2016, Verstappen became World Champion for the first time in 2021 and added a second title in 2022, setting a new record for the most victories for a driver in a single season with 15.
Winner of 27 of the last 47 races stretching back to the beginning of the 2021 campaign, Verstappen is the overwhelming favourite to make it three Championships in a row in 2023 and currently holds a 15-point lead over Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez at the summit of the Drivers’ standings.
Verstappen’s father Jos, who made 106 F1 starts between 1994 and 2003, has often been credited for building the 25-year-old into the winning machine seen today, but his mother Sophie Kumpen was an accomplished driver in karting too.
And, appearing on the new Viaplay documentary on Verstappen’s life, the Belgian has outlined her influence on her son’s success and ruthless attitude on track.
