Fun & Famous

FORMULA 1 IS THE NEW FOOTBALL

This is what you need to know to talk about Max Verstappen

I really am a loser when it comes to Formula 1. But my partner is a huge fan, and it’s kind of embarrassing to be left out. Because suddenly everyone is talking about Formula 1, you know. And about Max Verstappen. And about the Grand Prix taking place today in Monaco. Even May (read here but) is infected with the virus.

So today it’s entirely appropriate: a mini-course in Formula 1 for dummies. Because chicks who can talk about cars are pretty cool. The 7 things you need to know:

1. Let’s start with the basics. If you see GP popping up in various articles; yes, that’s the abbreviation for Grand Prix. It can be that simple, guys.

2. The man representing the Netherlands is called Max Verstappen. You probably already knew that. The Limburger became a star overnight after his victory in the GP of Spain last week.

3. Now you need to pay attention if you want to talk cool: Max is the youngest debutant, the youngest leader in a GP, the youngest driver on the podium, and the youngest winner of a GP in Formula 1 ever. And the first Dutchman to achieve that. AND THAT GUY IS EIGHTEEN. That’s why half of the Netherlands is so euphoric; this super victory simply cannot be ignored.

4. Verstappen started karting at the age of seven (!!!) in 2005. And he won everything back then. A typical natural talent.

5. Max drives a car from Red Bull Racing, and that’s his new main sponsor. Previously, he drove for Toro Rosso (also part of Red Bull). To make it easy; think of it as a second team in football. Max has been promoted and recently drives in the first team.

6. For Max, today’s race is extra exciting. Last year he crashed hard in the final stages of the Grand Prix of Monaco after a failed overtaking attempt on Romain Grosjean.

7. Today Ziggo is broadcasting from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. So tune in (and after this post, join the conversation) GO MAX!