In The Netherlands you've been compared to Johan Cruijff more than once, with regards to impact and popularity amongst other things. He truly left a legacy for the next generations with the Cruijff Foundation, amongst other things through the construction of the Cruijff Courts. Is that something you think about, for example with building karting tracks here and there?
Yes, but it isn't easy. I've looked into it before. But it's not that easy in The Netherlands. Like I said, a football field is just a little different from a karting track, more environmentally friendly too. I certainly want to leave a legacy but I'm mainly thinking of my GT-program then. Being able to scout talents in the sim world and giving them a chance in a real car. Those are goals I strive for, of course next to expanding my own race team Verstappen Racing.
Do you have an explanation for your popularity? Is it just because of your successes on the track?
Well, success helps a lot. If Johan Cruijff hadn't been able to kick a ball, he would never have been that popular.
But if people had disliked him he wouldn't have been either.
No, that's true. It's always a combination. There are plenty of footballers who are really popular of whom I think: are these the right examples for kids? But Johan Cruijff was also known and loved for the things he said and the way he thought. Look, I never read books. I really dislike it. But when there's a new book out about Johan Cruijff, I do read it. Because that does interest me.
Your popularity also lies in the fact that you're outspoken but that you've remained yourself despite all the success.
I hope so. It doesn't do any good to start acting weird. I will always treat people with respect and try to be an example for kids. I never used to collect autographs as a kid. Didn't have any posters on my walls either. I wasn't interested in that. The only thing I had in my room was this big cardboard cut-out board of my dad in a Minardi outfit. I don't have it anymore. I think it got lost in a move some time, haha.
Would you like it if the track [Zandvoort] were to have a Max Verstappen museum?
Yes, but I would build it myself. I'm thinking about where it should be. Eventually I would like something like that. Fernando Alonso has that too in Spain. I really like that. With all the cars, all F1 cars. Maybe it's a source of inspiration and motivation for young kids.
- Max Verstappen, Formule1 magazine, special edition Dutch GP Zandvoort 2026
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