Jos Verstappen Addresses Gas Station Story and Max's Tough Upbringing
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Jos Verstappen clears the air about a controversial story involving Max Verstappen at a gas station, sharing insights into the tough upbringing that shaped the four-time World Champion.
Jos Verstappen has provided clarity on a long-standing story about leaving his son, Max Verstappen, at a gas station. The elder Verstappen insists he didn’t abandon Max but rather chose not to speak to him for a week after a disappointing karting race. This incident is just one example of the tough-love approach that helped shape Max into the fierce competitor he is today.
Max Verstappen’s Journey to Formula 1 Stardom
Max Verstappen made history in 2015 when he debuted as the youngest driver to ever start a Formula 1 race, joining Toro Rosso (now AlphaTauri) at just 17 years old. Since then, he has achieved an astonishing 63 Grand Prix victories, 40 pole positions, and four World Championships.
Central to Max’s success has been the guidance of his father, Jos Verstappen, a former F1 driver himself. However, Jos’s methods were often unorthodox, marked by tough words and demanding training sessions.
The Infamous Gas Station Story
In 2022, Max recalled a memorable moment during his karting days when his father pulled over at a gas station in southern Italy after a disappointing race. “My dad said, ‘Stop talking, I don’t want to hear anything,’” Max told ESPN. Despite Max’s attempts to start a conversation, Jos eventually told him to get out of the car.
“He kicked me out and drove off… I called my mom to pick me up,” Max recounted, adding that his father later returned and allowed him back in the van but refused to speak further.
Jos has since clarified the story, telling F1 Insider, “The truth is: I didn’t leave him there. I just didn’t speak to him for a week. Was that too harsh? Not according to Max. He feels that my attitude prepared him better for Formula 1.”
Building a Champion
Jos Verstappen believes his strict approach played a crucial role in preparing Max for the intense pressures of Formula 1. “That’s why dealing with Helmut Marko, who is also known as an extremely tough guy, didn’t bother him anymore,” Jos explained.
He also highlighted the unique training methods they used, such as karting on dry tires in wet conditions, as key to Max’s development. “I only sense gratitude from him when it comes to his childhood with me,” he added.
The Real Max Verstappen
While Max Verstappen is known for his aggressive style on the track, Jos describes his son as calm and balanced in private. “On the track, he is unconditionally aggressive, and he has to be. But in private, he is a calm, extremely balanced, friendly soul. Someone who wants harmony and listens carefully before drawing conclusions,” Jos said.
He also defended Max’s straightforward nature, saying, “Max isn’t arrogant, he’s direct. He stands by his values and isn’t afraid to voice his opinion, even if it’s not popular. That’s something I’m incredibly proud of, as much as his sporting achievements.”
A Legacy Built on Resilience
As Max Verstappen continues to dominate Formula 1, his upbringing under the tough yet determined guidance of his father remains a defining part of his story. While controversial at times, Jos’s methods have undeniably contributed to the success of one of the sport’s most formidable talents.
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