Red Bull chief designer Adrian Newey has compared Max Verstappen to former Formula 1 champion Nigel Mansell.
The Dutchman was, without a doubt, the most exciting prospect to enter the sport in the last decade when he joined in 2015. Maybe only Lewis Hamilton’s arrival in 2007 produced same level of anticipation.
The speed with which he has delivered has also been incredible. Drafted to Red Bull from Toro Rosso in just his 25th race, he then won that first Grand Prix with the team in Spain.
A few unforced errors and controversial moments stopped him from being the top driver of 2016, regardless of championship position, but looking ahead to this season there is great expectation over what another off-season to reflect, learn and develop will do to the 19-year-old.
Most impressive has been his aggressive driving style and lack of fear making him the most exciting driver on the grid.
All characteristics Newey said, he saw in Mansell when he worked with him at Williams 25 years ago.
“It’s very reminiscent of Nigel,” he told Autosport. “It’s that sort of ‘I’m not going to be bullied, I’m going to do my thing and if you don’t like it it’s your problem’ approach.”
“Max has been an exciting newcomer, well not newcomer as it was his second year strictly speaking last year.
“But the way he drove the car did remind me of Nigel’s driving style.
“What was dramatic about Mansell was that you always knew it was him in the car.
“He had an almost metaphoric ‘elbows out’ driving style.
“Max is the same and it is exciting television.”
Indeed, orange became a popular colour in the crowds last year thanks to Verstappen, but his approach to driving hasn’t always been welcomed by his fellow drivers. That doesn’t bother the Red Bull man, however.
“I’m always focusing on myself and trying to do the best possible race and result,” he said.
“That’s how it goes, I don’t care about other opinions.”
