Max Verstappen: The Four-Time Champion Chasing a Fightback in 2026

Four world titles, the youngest driver ever to start a Grand Prix, and one of the most relentless racers the sport has seen — Max Verstappen enters 2026 chasing a fightback. Here's his story.

Who is Max Verstappen?

The Dutchman burst onto the scene in 2015 as the youngest driver ever to start a Formula 1 race, aged just 17. He has since won four consecutive World Championships (2021–2024) with Red Bull, and stands on 71 Grand Prix victories, 48 pole positions and 127 podiums — numbers that already place him among the all-time greats.

So close to a fifth in 2025

Verstappen's title streak ended in 2025, when he finished just two points short of a record-equalling fifth straight crown after a season-long fight.

A tougher 2026

2026 has been harder. Red Bull's new car has battled instability and reliability as the team navigates the big regulation reset and a wave of personnel changes, leaving Verstappen more often resilient than dominant — though his aggressive pace keeps him in the fight.

Silverstone 2026

His British Grand Prix ended early: Verstappen crashed out in the closing laps, triggering the late Safety Car that shaped the finish. See our British Grand Prix report.

More Formula 1

Explore the 2026 teams and drivers, championship leader Kimi Antonelli, and Lewis Hamilton.

Sources: Red Bull Racing, Formula 1.