F1 News: Sky pundit Croft hails Max Verstappen as ‘genius’

British Sky Sports F1’s David Croft (pictured) says Max Verstappen as a “phenomenal driver” ahead of this weekend’s Las Vegas Grand Prix.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

Verstappen can secure his fourth consecutive F1 drivers’ title in Las Vegas this weekend if he outscores Norris by three points this weekend.

The Dutchman could become just the second driver in F1 history, to win their first four titles consecutively.

Verstappen sits 62 points ahead of Norris, despite Norris’ McLaren being superior.

Speaking on the Sky Sports F1 podcast ahead of Vegas, Croft praised Verstappen’s performances in 2024 considering he’s been “clearly not in the fastest car”.

“If he wins in Vegas again as he did last year and goes on then to take the title. Brilliant. Well done Max Verstappen,” Croft said.

“What a fantastic performance. And to be world champion in a year when he’s clearly not in the fastest car. I think the performance of that Red Bull is somewhere between Max and Checo Perez, but more on the Max end. But to do it in not in the fastest car, it’s a brilliant season.

“He’s a phenomenal driver. We talk a lot about Max and talk a lot about off the track, and forcing other people off the track, but let’s actually spend a minute or so saying Max Verstappen – genius driver, fantastic world champion. He deserves to be a four-time world champion.”

Croft thinks Verstappen will wrap the title up this weekend.

“If he’s got the car next year that can compete, will surely be a five-time champion in the making,” Croft added.

“One of the greatest drivers ever to race in F1 and we should not let anything else detract from that. It’s rare that we’ve actually had the chance to sit down and discuss Max the champion.

“I think he will win it in Vegas. I think it will be done and dusted there.

“Max deserves to be a four-time world champion. If he has got the car next year that can compete then he will surely be a five-time world champion.”