P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen has undoubtedly had a large impact on Formula 1 in the Netherlands, but ex-team manager Graham Watson believes the Dutchman has saved F1 as a whole.
According to ex-AlphaTauri Team Manager Graham Watson, Max Verstappen has single-handedly saved Formula 1 by generating immense interest in the sport. Verstappen’s debut in F1 in 2015 with Toro Rosso and subsequent move to Red Bull has resulted in three World Championships and numerous records. Watson compares Verstappen’s impact to that of Michael Schumacher when he joined Ferrari, bringing significant popularity to the sport. Verstappen’s intensity and ability to create excitement on the track has attracted a whole new audience to Formula 1, surpassing even the following Schumacher had. In contrast, Watson believes Lewis Hamilton, though talented, is associated with various external ventures, while Verstappen is solely seen as a Formula 1 driver who is constantly working to improve his skills.
