P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen says he was taken aback by the reaction he received from fans during the 2025 F1 season.
Max Verstappen was surprised by the positive reaction he received from fans during the 2025 Formula 1 season, as he did not expect to win people over in such a way. Despite previously facing boos on podiums due to his dominance, the story shifted as Red Bull lost its advantage, and Verstappen had to fight from behind. Despite trailing the championship leader by 104 points after his home race at Zandvoort, a strong recovery in the final races brought him back into the title fight, which was ultimately won by Lando Norris. Verstappen earned praise for consistently outperforming both McLaren drivers towards the end of the season, showcasing a different side of himself away from dominance. He emphasized the importance of staying grounded and being true to himself, rather than chasing records or titles for external validation. Verstappen acknowledged the support he received and the evolving perception of him in the public eye, highlighting the significance of having a supportive inner circle to keep him balanced throughout his career.
