Max Verstappen‘s mental edge is what makes him nearly impossible to beat in F1, according to nine-time Le Mans winner Tom Kristensen.
"Once you learn how to win, you become even stronger mentally," Kristensen told Motorsport-Magazine. And that’s exactly what makes Verstappen so tough to challenge.
McLaren and Lando Norris learned this the hard way in 2024. Despite having the speed and confidence to compete, they just couldn’t put together the complete package needed to truly challenge Verstappen.
The numbers tell the story. Norris started from pole position eight times last season, but only managed to keep the lead past the first lap once.
"If you want to beat Max in the race to turn one, you need to be firmer in the battles," Kristensen explained.
But it’s not just about the starts. McLaren’s strategy calls cost them valuable points throughout the season. And that’s the thing about racing against Verstappen – you can’t afford any mistakes.
"They have to operate at 100 percent – every race," said Kristensen, who knows a thing or two about winning. His record nine Le Mans victories, including six in a row, make him one of motorsport’s most successful drivers ever.
What really sets Verstappen apart is his incredible self-belief. Even on his rare off days, he doesn’t let it shake him.
"If he is not fast, it doesn’t matter much to him, because he knows he will dominate again next time," Kristensen noted.
The mental battle is especially crucial in those opening laps. "They have to be not only faster, but also mentally stronger, especially during the opening laps. It’s about not succumbing to the pressure," Kristensen added.
For now, it seems the four-time world champion’s combination of speed, consistency, and mental strength remains unbeatable. And until someone can match him in all three areas, Verstappen’s dominance looks set to continue.
