'Pharaoh Max' continues to dominate the F1 hierarchy - Danner

      Max Verstappen is still the sole Formula 1 driver with significant influence over the broader driver market, according to former F1 racer Christian Danner. In an interview with Kolner Express, the RTL analyst emphasized that Verstappen’s recently signed Red Bull contract, which runs until 2030, doesn’t alter the fact that he effectively governs the market whenever his future is uncertain. "Max Verstappen is by far the most powerful," he remarked. "He is acknowledged by both allies and rivals as the best, and that’s why he essentially sets the terms of the driver market."

      "As long as he indicates he might be available, he prevents any other movements. To illustrate with the power pyramid concept: only when Pharaoh Max makes a move do the other pieces shift." Danner contends that Verstappen ultimately had fewer viable options than recent discussions indicated. "At Mercedes, the trial with Kimi Antonelli seems to be yielding results," he observed. "The young driver is currently in contention for the title." "This means Toto Wolff certainly doesn’t need another superstar in his team." He noted a similar scenario at McLaren, questioning, "Does Zak Brown really need a Verstappen who would greatly upset the chemistry with his star Norris? No, he’s better off with Piastri."

      Danner thus concludes that remaining with Red Bull was the sensible choice. "At Red Bull, they understand perfectly: We need Max, or we won’t win. But Max also knows he requires Red Bull to achieve victory." "It’s clear: Max is in control. The king sits atop his throne, restlessly shifting and complaining, but where else could he possibly go?"

      F1 icon Fernando Alonso's remarks at Zandvoort were equally strong. When Viaplay asked him to score Verstappen, Alonso jokingly said: "A 9.9. Only I am a 10!" He remarked, "He’s the best competitor I’ve faced on the track because he has no weaknesses. He was exceptional and raised the standard for all of us." "To surpass Max on the track, you have to improve yourself." Ralf Schumacher also believes Verstappen made the correct decision by staying with Red Bull. "I think Max is best where he is," he told Bild. "It’s a team he knows inside out and one that supports him fully."