Dutchman will be just 17-years-old when he makes his debut in 2015
Thursday 18 September 2014 09:27, UK
New Toro Rosso recruit Max Verstappen spoke exclusively to Sky Sports News HQ about his goals for 2015 when he will become the youngest driver in F1 history.
The 16-year-old was confirmed as Jean-Eric Vergne's replacement on Monday after an impressive start to his single-seater career.
Max it must be a dream come true for you to reach F1 at such a young age.
Max Verstappen: “I didn’t expect that, when you are so young you don’t plan that, but I am really happy with it.”
You’re heading to Toro Rosso where both Sebastian Vettel and Daniel Ricciardo have raced. Are you looking to follow in their footsteps?
MV: “Especially like Vettel did it, you try to do the same.”
Does that put you under more pressure trying to emulate the World Champion?
MV: “Not really, I am always quit relaxed so I don’t think so.”
Many drivers come to F1 and only last a season or two seasons. Why are you different? Why are you here for the long haul?
MV: “You have to be fast and I will just try to do my best and from then on we will see what happens in the future.”
Have you set any targets for next year?
MV: “I think you have to be consistent, for sure you have to be fast, try to finish and try to make as few mistakes as possible.”
In Britain we have Jenson Button with a smooth driving style and then Lewis Hamilton with his late braking. How would you characterise your style?
MV: “I guess more like Hamilton.”
Your dad Jos is an ex-F1 driver of course. What has he had to say on the news?
MV: “We have worked together up until this point, we did everything together ourselves so he is still a big help.”
You’re currently racing in the European F3 Championship, what happens between now and your F1 debut next year?
MV: “Of course the physical condition has to be better to do an F1 race as you have to do one-and-a-half hour races instead of 35 minutes so we are going to work hard on that.”
