Helmut Marko Calls Max Verstappen a 'Special Exception' Among F1 Greats

Helmut Marko, a veteran advisor who has worked with legends like Niki Lauda and Sebastian Vettel, believes Max Verstappen is a "special exception" in Formula 1. Despite their starkly different personalities, Marko sees a profound similarity in driving philosophy between Verstappen and the late Jochen Rindt: an unwavering push to the absolute limit. This comparison from one of F1's most experienced figures underscores Verstappen's unique standing in the sport's modern era.

Why it matters:

• Marko's perspective, shaped by decades of experience with F1 champions, carries immense weight in the paddock.
• His comments challenge the narrative that Verstappen's success is solely due to Red Bull's dominant car, highlighting the driver's exceptional skill and adaptability.
• Placing Verstappen in the same conversation as legends like Rindt solidifies his case as an all-time great, capable of transcending different eras of the sport.

The details:

• First Impression: Marko recalls his first meeting with a 15-year-old Verstappen, describing him as "a 15-year-old body with the mind of a 25-year-old" who was exceptionally focused and knew exactly what he wanted.
• Rindt vs. Verstappen: While their styles were similar in pushing the limit, their personalities differed. Marko calls Rindt an "adventurer," while Verstappen is far more analytical and methodical in his approach.
• Transcending the Car: Marko asserts that Verstappen is an exception to the modern rule that the car is everything. He believes Verstappen's "incredible car control" allows him to win even when his machinery isn't the absolute best on the grid.
• Mastering the Craft: The advisor notes Verstappen's evolution, stating that while Lewis Hamilton was the better tire manager in 2021, Verstappen has since become "the master" in that domain as well.

Between the lines:

• Marko's final hypothetical comparison is perhaps his most telling. When asked if Verstappen could have raced in the dangerous 1970s, he said he'd sooner see Verstappen succeed in that era than Rindt in today's.
• The implication is clear: Verstappen's combination of raw talent, analytical mind, and adaptability makes him a more complete and versatile driver than even the great Jochen Rindt.
• This isn't just praise; it's a declaration that Verstappen possesses a rare, era-defying skill set that cements his status as a once-in-a-generation competitor.