Max Verstappen has raised the bar on Sebastian Vettel, according to Red Bull team principal Christian Horner.
Verstappen is edging towards four-time world champion Vettel in the record books, having wrapped up a third title at the last grand prix in Qatar two weekends ago.
The Dutchman bids for his 50th win in F1 this weekend at the United States Grand Prix, which will leave him just three shy of Red Bull’s former star driver.
With Verstappen capable of eclipsing that before the season’s end, Horner told Standard Sport: “We’ve worked with some greats. Seb was an outstanding talent with the four world titles in a row he managed to achieve. It’s a similar level of dominance with what Max is doing.
“He’s a phenomenal talent to work with. With everything he’s achieving, Max is absolutely matching and exceeding what Sebastian was able to achieve.”
Verstappen and Red Bull are enjoying the most dominant season in their history.
Last year, they won 17 races in all, this time they have 16 victories from 17 grands prix — 14 of those by Verstappen — with five races remaining on the calendar.
Of the secret behind Verstappen’s success, Horner said: “He’s just a racing machine. He’s immensely talented, but it’s not just about the natural talent, but also the mental strength that he has.
“To deliver at high-pressure moments, in and out laps, changing conditions, racecraft, decisive moments when they matter and being able to read the race. He’s always one step ahead and without [making] mistakes.”
