Verstappen discussed this topic alongside Carlos Sainz during a press conference held at the Japanese F1 Grand Prix.
Both Verstappen and Ferrari driver Sainz share a background where their fathers have competed in rallying. Carlos Sainz Sr. was one of the top rally drivers of his time, winning two world championships. Sainz Sr. battled for championships against the likes of Tommi Mäkinen in the 1990s.
Max Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, is more widely known for his F1 career, but he has also taken up rallying after retiring from F1.
“My dad started rallying about two or three years ago. So, when I see his onboard videos, I definitely think he’s in more danger than me,” Max Verstappen stated emphatically.
Verstappen places rally drivers in very high regard.
“I have a lot of respect for people who do the rallying,” Verstappen said.
“It’s really impressive,” he continued.
The difference between rallying and circuit racing, such as Formula One, is clear. On the track, randomness plays a much smaller role than in rallying.
“There are trees and other stuff. Here on the track, the walls are designed to withstand a impact. So there’s not as much to worry about,” Verstappen reflected.
Carlos Sainz recalled that their fathers have already started sharing their experiences.
“I think it was during the Bahrain test. Your dad was showing my dad his best moments. So now they’re sharing their moments from rallying,” Sainz mentioned.
Jos Verstappen’s rally career is set to continue next weekend as he makes his debut in the British Rally Championship. It will be Verstappen’s first gravel race. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen’s season will continue after mid-April when the F1 circus moves to China.
