Gerhard Berger hails Max Verstappen as Formula 1's greatest driver ever

Verstappen's journey to this acclaim began with his triumphant 2021 season, where he clinched his first F1 world title after a fierce battle with Lewis Hamilton. Subsequent seasons saw the Dutchman's dominance, securing him a place as the third-highest race winner in F1 history, trailing only Hamilton and Michael Schumacher.

In a recent interview with Auto Motor und Sport, Berger, who has raced alongside iconic figures like Ayrton Senna and Schumacher, contemplated Verstappen's standing among the greats. He admitted his bias towards Senna but acknowledged the necessity of evaluating greatness through facts and figures.

"With Max Verstappen, we have someone who makes me question whether my old assessment is still correct," Berger admitted. "Max didn't make a single mistake last season."

Berger highlighted a unique aspect of Verstappen's dedication – his use of simulators during spare time, a tool unavailable to the legends of the past. "Verstappen, however, still races virtually on the simulator in his spare time. He is always preoccupied with racing. He mentally plays through where he can and cannot overtake," Berger explained.

Comparing Verstappen to the karting-bred Senna and Schumacher, Berger emphasized the Dutch driver's unmatched precision. "Neither Senna, Schumacher nor Hamilton had this tool. It's simply noticeable that Max is always in the right place. At the start, in the first corner, in the duel. I can't think of anything you could do better than him. That's why Max Verstappen is probably the best we've ever seen in Formula 1."

As the motorsport world eagerly anticipates the 2024 season, Verstappen's legacy looms large. The Bahrain International Circuit will witness the unfolding drama during the official F1 pre-season testing, setting the stage for what could be an era dominated by the unparalleled skills of Max Verstappen, the potential greatest Formula 1 driver in history.

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