David Croft defends Max Verstappen: “This is what makes him a champion, like Michael Schumacher”. David Croft commented on Max Verstappen's driving style.

Max Verstappen, like Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton—this was the sentiment from David Croft, who decided to side with the four-time Formula 1 World Champion to silence his critics.

Why is Max Verstappen not as widely loved? Many consider him too aggressive on track, but Croft has a different perspective. The Red Bull driver always races on the edge: he’s aggressive, yes, intimidating his rivals to the point of making them step back. However, when he breaches the rules, he faces the consequences like everyone else.

This sporting ruthlessness, as David Croft explains, is what sets Max Verstappen apart from other drivers who couldn’t handle the pressure, and it’s what allows him to be a champion. “Is he too aggressive on track and petulant with other drivers? That’s what makes him a winner and a champion.”

“Now, do we like champions? Do we like winners? Everyone has their favorites, and I completely understand that. But Max does what he feels is right to be a champion, and Red Bull pays him to do just that. I like Max; I’ve always liked him. He has so much talent.”

David Croft identifies these “champion traits” in three other drivers, whom he mentions alongside the Dutchman. “Michael Schumacher—we love Michael Schumacher. We love Lewis Hamilton. They’re winners. They’re champions. We also love Sebastian Vettel for all those years when he won four titles.”

David Croft concluded by encouraging Max Verstappen’s critics to reconsider and enjoy racing, which often includes moves on the edge. “Maybe we should just appreciate the fact that Max is a bit of a winner. Maybe we should actually celebrate the fact that, for four years, he has been on top. Spain 2022 was the last time Max wasn’t leading the drivers’ championship.”