Max Verstappen is currently the most sought-after figure in the top tier of motor racing! Helmut Marko, a senior advisor at Red Bull, recently shared insights about how Red Bull decided to allow Verstappen to participate in the free practice session at Suzuka in 2014, in order to assess his potential. Marko was well aware of Verstappen’s exceptional talent and saw this as the perfect opportunity to put it to the test.
At the tender age of 17 and just three days, Verstappen took part in the free practice session at Suzuka. His talent was widely recognized, even by Mercedes who could not guarantee him a direct entry into Formula 1 at that time. However, Red Bull saw his potential and in 2014, the Austrian team announced the signing of Verstappen as a driver for Toro Rosso in 2015.
When discussing the moment Red Bull decided to give Verstappen a chance, Marko added the following remarks.
In 2016, Verstappen officially joined Red Bull and since then, he has become an unstoppable force on the racing grid. He now boasts three Grand Prix victories at Suzuka, the very place where his Formula 1 journey began.
As mentioned earlier, the reigning champion, Max Verstappen, joined Toro Rosso in 2015. However, he had the opportunity to drive in Formula 1 for the first time during the Japanese Grand Prix in 2014. Verstappen still vividly remembers that significant moment.
When reflecting on the entire experience, Verstappen had the following to say.
Unfortunately, the weekend didn’t end well due to a tragic accident involving [REMOVED]. Verstappen’s outing was cut short. However, Red Bull had recognized his immense talent right from the start, and their efforts are now paying off. Verstappen has been on an impressive streak under the current set of Formula 1 regulations.