Max Verstappen answers a wide range of fan questions about Formula 1. He explains that his team runs billions of simulations to decide the optimal pit‑stop timing, and while drivers study footage of rivals, they must adapt each weekend because car balance, weather and wind constantly change. Overtaking improves with practice—both on‑track and in simulators—and he cites Baku as a track that often delivers exciting, unpredictable action. He rejects the notion that wet races are boring, noting they can be highly entertaining depending on when and how much rain falls. The recent surge of F1 interest in the U.S. is attributed to the Netflix series, increased media exposure, and the sport’s push for three U.S. races.
A great driver differs from a good one by delivering consistent performance under pressure. Verstappen declines to name his own weakness, emphasizing that drivers work on any shortcomings privately. Physical fitness is essential to withstand the forces of a race and to focus on driving rather than merely holding onto the car. Mental preparation varies: some drivers follow elaborate routines, while he prefers a simple warm‑up and reaction games.
He clarifies that F1 cars differ markedly in both appearance and underlying design, making the sport unique; the straw in his helmet is actually short, and he does not eat ice during races. Weight loss comes from sweat and effort, not tension. Most drivers reach F1 via karting and climbing the junior ranks, similar to other sports. Memorable moments include first wins and championships, and drivers must use the bathroom before a race because there is none in the car.
Older 80s/90s cars would be slower than today’s machines due to evolving regulations and accumulated knowledge. Reaction time benefits from pre‑race warm‑ups and adrenaline, and drivers see the halo by using peripheral vision, rarely looking straight ahead. The “GOAT” question is left to fans, as everyone has their own favorite. Training relies heavily on simulators because on‑track testing is limited; drivers spend many hours each year in the sim and discuss strategy constantly with the team.
Regarding pit strategy, undercuts are generally favored on high‑wear tracks, while overcuts can work on low‑wear circuits like Baku. Throughout a race weekend drivers log several hours of practice, qualifying and racing, plus additional simulator work (often a full‑time‑equivalent schedule). His personal highlight is the 2019 Brazilian Grand Prix, though he finds it hard to pick a single “best” victory.
Looking ahead, the 2026 power‑unit and aerodynamic changes will demand a different driving style, likely reshaping the competitive order. Finally, he views DRS as a net positive for overtaking and excitement, especially on tracks where following is otherwise difficult due to high downforce.
1. Max Steen is answering questions from the internet as part of F1 driver support.
2. His team, together with Oracle, runs over 8 billion simulations before a race.
3. The simulations provide opportunities to confirm the correct pit‑stop strategy and timing.
4. F1 drivers review onboard footage of other drivers and themselves, sometimes referencing previous years.
5. Formula 1 cars are updated each year, which can alter the car’s balance.
6. Weather conditions and wind direction have a significant influence on race performance.
7. Drivers may use past footage as a reference but must optimize strategy based on weekend data.
8. Practicing frequently improves overtaking ability; more racing leads to more overtaking and defending situations.
9. Physical fitness is required for F1 drivers because of the high forces on the body during a race.
10. Drivers must be fit enough to control the car and perform other tasks while racing.
11. Mental preparation varies among drivers; some do warm‑up exercises and reaction games, others keep it simple.
12. Drivers can sneeze while driving, causing a brief distraction of about half a second, which may happen when they are ill.
13. Formula 1 cars differ both in external appearance and internal design; each team develops its own solutions.
14. Drivers drink fluid through a short straw connected to their helmet, not a long external straw.
15. Weight loss during a race results from sweating and physical effort, not from tension.
16. Most drivers reach Formula 1 by karting, progressing through racing ranks, and being better than peers.
17. There is no toilet in an F1 car; drivers must use the bathroom before the race starts.
18. 1980s/1990s F1 cars are slower than modern cars, partly due to regulatory changes and accumulated knowledge over time.
19. Pre‑race warm‑up can help reduce reaction time; adrenaline during a race naturally improves reaction time.
20. Drivers see around the halo by moving their eyes left or right rather than looking straight ahead.
21. Teams use simulators extensively; drivers typically spend the equivalent of a 9‑to‑5 day, 20‑25 days per year, on simulator work.
22. During a race weekend, drivers spend several hours in the car (e.g., about three hours of practice) plus qualifying and the race itself.
23. Pit‑stop strategy (undercut vs. overcut) depends on tire wear and fuel load; undercut is generally favored, while overcut can work on tracks with low tire wear.
24. The Drag Reduction System (DRS) has aided overtaking on some circuits by allowing drivers to open the rear wing on straights to counteract the difficulty of following closely due to high downforce.