Formula 1 has not been the same since Max Verstappen arrived on the scene. At a time of existential crisis for F1, fear over declining audiences, uncertainty amid a shifting media landscape, and an inability to connect with new fans, here is a driver who draws crowds.
People turn up to grands prix to watch Max Verstappen race. The way he has risen meteorically from 15-year-old karting star to European Formula 3 ace, to Red Bull junior driver, to Toro Rosso star rookie, to Red Bull F1 driver and grand prix winner, all in the space of little more than three years, is quite extraordinary.
It is reminiscent of Kimi Raikkonen's elevation in 2001 as the reigning Formula Renault UK champion.