Being a Formula 1 teammate to a superstar driver is no easy task, and Jos Verstappen knows this firsthand. As a former teammate of Michael Schumacher, Jos experienced the challenge of going up against one of the sport’s greatest drivers. Despite the intense competition, Jos and Michael shared a respectful relationship that extended beyond the racetrack.
Their bond also had an unexpected influence on Jos’s son, Max Verstappen, who is now a dominant force in Formula 1. In a reflection with F1-Insider, Jos shared that his experiences with Schumacher may have indirectly shaped Max’s journey.
“We often went go-karting with our children, Mick and Max,” Jos recalled. “Michael didn’t treat Max and Mick differently. If he had advice, he gave it to both. It’s quite possible Max benefited from those moments.”
Parallels Between Max and Michael
Jos sees striking similarities between Max Verstappen and Michael Schumacher, both on and off the track.
“Max has a lot in common with Michael,” Jos noted. “On the track, he is uncompromising, but in private, he is sweet, sensitive, and caring.”
These qualities have helped Max not only dominate races but also connect with fans and peers.
Dreams of Racing Together
While Max Verstappen has forged his own path to greatness, he harbors a dream of racing alongside his father in a professional event, such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, Jos remains skeptical.
“Max keeps talking about it; he wants it very much,” Jos said. “But I look at this critically. I’m much too slow for him. At the moment, I’d have to rule it out.”
Though the dream may remain unrealized, the connection between Jos, Max, and Michael Schumacher’s legacy continues to inspire Formula 1 fans worldwide.
