Max Verstappen shares his thoughts on the heartfelt reaction of his father, Jos Verstappen, following his significant victory in Sepang.
Max Verstappen reflected on the heartfelt reaction of his father, Jos Verstappen, after the four-time champion secured his initial grand prix victory of the 2026 season, marking the first triumph for Red Bull's power unit initiative.
During the post-race press conference following the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, the Dutch driver shared his thoughts on what this achievement signifies for him and his family.
"We’re all deeply invested in this," he mentioned when asked about his father's emotional response. "And, of course, my bond with my dad is strong; we truly understand each other well after all the years spent working towards our Formula 1 ambitions.
"He’s still there supporting me from the background. He doesn’t attend every race, but when he does, we discuss everything extensively. He’s well-informed. I guess for him, the start of the season was tough to watch.
"For me, being in the car was challenging. However, witnessing the team's development, which never ceased, as they tackled and resolved the issues we faced, and then delivering a performance like this, is incredible.
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, Laurent Mekies, Red Bull Racing Team Principal
"Moreover, the atmosphere among the team is genuinely positive. Everyone is aligned, and we communicate effectively. It’s quite fulfilling to be part of this team, which is why I believe everyone is extremely pleased that we have finally achieved a result like this."
Verstappen claimed victory in the dramatic Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, while his teammate Isack Hadjar secured a fifth-place finish. This followed a strong double podium for the Milton Keynes squad at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix last weekend, where Verstappen and Hadjar finished second and third, respectively.
His victory in Sepang has elevated Verstappen to sixth in the drivers' standings, tying him on 188 points with fifth-placed Lando Norris.
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