Sebastian Vettel’s admission to Max Verstappen: “You’re better than me, you’ll beat my record”. Sebastian Vettel feels Max Verstappen can surpass him in the number of consecutive F1 titles.

Sebastian Vettel believes in Max Verstappen
For different reasons, the 2021 and 2024 titles were the hardest for Max Verstappen to secure. However, the 2025 season might present an even tougher challenge for the Dutchman, as McLaren currently has the best car (by a margin), while Red Bull is only achieving acceptable performance with the reigning world champion.

If Max Verstappen remains in the title fight, it is solely due to his own abilities, as he has consistently pushed the limits of the car (as shown in the start of 2025). But will his talent be enough to close the gap with McLaren? Sebastian Vettel believes the Dutch driver can succeed.

Sebastian Vettel’s comments
“It could be his hardest title. I’m quite sure he can do it,” said the former German driver to the BBC.

By winning in 2025, Max Verstappen would also equal Michael Schumacher with five consecutive F1 World Championships (currently, Schumacher is the only one in history to have achieved this) and surpass Sebastian Vettel in consecutive titles with Red Bull. However, Seb has always supported him: “I remember being in contact with him when he was about to break the record for the most consecutive GP wins. I had nine, and he matched it. Then I told him: ‘You’re better than me, I’m sure you’ll beat my record.’ He replied that he wasn’t sure, but then he won his tenth consecutive Grand Prix.” – the former Ferrari driver concluded.