In its anniversary year, FORMULE 1 Magazine closely followed Max Verstappen on his global journey across 24 stops. Five editors and two columnists share their most notable, personal memories of him in 2024. First up is Bas Holtkamp.
Looking back on the year, not only does the battle between Verstappen and Norris stand out, but also the occasionally spicy remarks from the world champion. Straightforward and unfiltered. We’re used to this from him, but this year they came around more frequently. This was also the case on a drizzly Thursday in Spa-Francorchamps.
The table where Verstappen sits in the Red Bull motorhome is crowded. Much busier than usual. Not surprising, as the previous race in Hungary did not go smoothly. Verstappen expressed his displeasure over the radio, causing quite a stir. “If you can’t handle my language, don’t listen or turn off the sound,” the Dutchman responds in his own unique way in the Ardennes. The press bystanders, including myself, chuckle and know they have another great quote. And to be honest, it’s refreshing these days to have athletes who are not afraid to be undiplomatic and have not been silenced by media training.
Max is simply Max, and will always remain Max.
