Max Verstappen labelled “a risk” as he shares unimpressed view of A-list celebrities

Max Verstappen has been described as “a risk” to Formula One’s huge goal to expand in the United States.

The three-time Formula One champion, who dominated the sport this year, has never hidden his disdain for the glitz and glamour that has become an increasingly important aspect of race weekends.

Verstappen initially declined to participate in Netflix’s ‘Drive To Survive,’ citing his desire to avoid the spotlight.

Verstappen confessed “I can’t be bothered” when Brad Pitt and the Lewis Hamilton-produced F1 film visited Silverstone earlier this year.

Verstappen recently expressed to TIME his lack of interest in socializing with famous movie stars, stating, “I have no desire to be able to hang out with famous movie stars.”

Regarding the Netflix show that attracted new fans to F1, he mentioned, “I don’t feel the need to watch it because I’m already aware of the events. I’m not particularly keen on hearing about our competitors’ seasons from others. I know my perspective, and that suffices for me.”

 

 

Verstappen highlighted his reluctance towards increased marketing commitments and their potential impact on his career longevity, emphasizing, “I believe that prioritizing the actual sport over the spectacle is crucial. This, for me, holds great importance and will ultimately determine whether I continue or not.”

Helmut Marko, from Red Bull, acknowledged the need to be cautious about burdening Verstappen with excessive responsibilities, admitting, “He isn’t fond of it.”

“I want Max to be relaxed and happy. Perhaps fewer sponsors.”

That attitude prompted Barton Crockett, senior research analyst for Rosenblatt Securities who covers F1 owner Liberty Media, to declare, “As great as Verstappen is, right now he looks like the biggest risk to the business.”

Since Liberty Media took ownership, F1 has been focusing on the United States.

In 2022, the American owners generated $2.57 billion in revenue, a 44% increase over 2017.

The F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix was another significant step in attracting attention from the United States.

However, the sport’s finest driver is currently uninterested in the celebrity side of F1.