Verstappen under fire from critics. British media criticise his path to legendary status, why do they think he has to leave Red Bull?

Max Verstappen, now a four-time Formula One world champion, is facing harsh criticism from the British media. The debate revolves around the question of whether the Dutch racer has the qualities and charisma to be a true F1 legend. What exactly are the Brits questioning and what do they think he should change?

• Critics say Verstappen will never become a Formula One legend in the Red Bull stable

• Some accuse him of lacking a personality that would attract fans like legends Ayrton Senna or Lewis Hamilton

• According to the British media, Max also lacks the iconic moments that would seal his legacy in F1

Max Verstappen is unquestionably one of the most successful drivers in Formula One today. At the age of 27, he already has four championship titles and a long winning streak. However, the British media has sparked a debate about whether his dominance is really evidence of exceptional ability and has leaned on the Red Bull stable.

“If Verstappen wants to become a Formula One legend, he will have to leave Red Bull,” read the headline in the British media outlet The Telegraph.

In the article, the author even made his point clear from the headline. “A team backed by an energy drink does not evoke the same emotions as, say, Ferrari or Mercedes,” wrote the article’s author, Oliver Brown. “If it seeks to cement its legendary status for future generations, it will have to go sooner or later,” he added.

Verstappen and his charisma and relationship with the fans

Another criticism is the lack of charisma that would make Verstappen a true global icon. Senna was loved by fans not only for his skills but also his overall attitude. Hamilton, on the other hand, became a symbol of activism and a champion of diversity in sport. Verstappen, by contrast, comes across as aloof, which some fans perceive as aloofness.

Iconic moments that would define his career are also said to be absent. While Senna, for example, was known for his heroic performance in a wet qualifying session at Monaco in 1984, and Michael Schumacher for his often incredible comebacks in races, Verstappen’s career has been too smooth and predictable, according to critics.

Verstappen fans, however, understandably reject these claims. They argue that the Dutchman has shown his exceptionalism in difficult conditions, such as the 2016 Brazilian Grand Prix, where he delivered a brilliant drive in the wet.

His father has also commented on the situation with the British media. “Max himself has shown everyone who is the best. I believe he was very motivated, especially thanks to the journalists from England,” said Jos Verstappen. “They think it will derail his mood, but their negative words will push him further,” Jos added.

Some experts suggest Verstappen could win more admiration if he were to engage more in public debates or open up more to the media. Others say that is not necessary and that his results speak for themselves.

The debate about what makes a driver a legend will certainly continue. Verstappen, however, has all the ingredients to rank among the greatest in history. The objective and unquestionable truth is that the Red Bull driver has all the makings of what a legend of the sport must have to be a legend. The other objective truth is that F1 fans must take the British media with a grain of salt in this context.

Source: The Telegraph, PlanetF1