In a sport steeped in history, few names resonate as powerfully as Ayrton Senna, the Brazilian icon whose brilliance defined an era of Formula 1.
Now, another Brazilian legend, two-time world champion Emerson Fittipaldi, has offered a striking comparison, placing reigning champion Max Verstappen on the same pedestal as his late countryman.
Speaking on the official Formula 1 podcast Beyond the Grid, Fittipaldi lauded Verstappen’s extraordinary ability to give it his all on every lap, in every session, pushing his car to its absolute limits, evoking memories of Senna’s masterful performances.
Fittipaldi sees in Verstappen a driver who transcends mere speed, much like Senna did in his prime. The 78-year-old Brazilian highlighted Verstappen’s standout drive in last year’s Brazilian Grand Prix, where he witnessed the Dutchman’s dominance firsthand.
Fittipaldi’s comparison to Senna underscores the high regard in which Verstappen is held as a driver who not only dominates with speed but also possesses the rare ability to extract the absolute maximum from his car in every condition.
Fittipaldi Breaks Down Verstappen’s Mastery
“I think Max is on the level of driving now, incredible,” Fittipaldi said. “He carries, now the Red Bull car on his back. He’s not driving. He’s carrying the car.
“In situations like the Brazilian Grand Prix last year, I was there. It’s amazing what he did. I go back to Ayrton Senna to compare his drive styling, [it’s] similar.”
What sets Verstappen apart, according to Fittipaldi, isn’t just raw pace or race wins, but a near-unmatched ability to extract the absolute maximum from his machine at all times.
“I think what’s very impressive [is] that he’s able to utilise 100 percent of the car full-time,” he explained.
“He’s always on the edge of the balance of the car, of utilising the maximum grip available in each different situation—braking, turning, mid-corner, exits.
“He can use the four wheels perfect.”
Praise for Alonso and Insight on McLaren’s Internal Rivalry
While Verstappen drew the highest comparisons, Fittipaldi also had laudatory words for Fernando Alonso, whom he sees as a mirror of his own approach to racing – especially given the Spaniard’s longevity and intensity against younger rivals.
“I think every driver has his own style, but I think the one that’s very similar, in one way, and I am a great fan, is Fernando Alonso, because he’s there with the young lions,” Fittipaldi said.
“He’s strong, is a lot of age, but mentally strong, physically strong. And I like Fernando a lot.”
Finally, turning his attention to McLaren – his former team – Fittipaldi noted that the emerging rivalry between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri could shape the team's season.
“They have the pressure for the championship campaign and they have the extra pressure of teammates,” he observed. “It’s double pressure. Not just trying to win the championship, but competition from both.”
With a sharp eye on both current talent and the challenges of the modern grid, Fittipaldi’s words add valuable perspective to the ever-evolving F1 landscape—where history and the present are more intertwined than ever.
Read also: Former Red Bull mechanic makes sensational Verstappen call
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