Dutch racing driver and father of Formula One World Champion Max Verstappen, known for his own racing career and mentoring his son to success.
As the first Dutch Formula One driver to secure two podium finishes, Jos Verstappen's illustrious career has left an indelible mark on the world of motorsport. With a legacy that spans over two decades, Verstappen's impact on the racing world is multifaceted, influencing generations of drivers, including his son, Max.
Born on March 4, 1972, Verstappen's fascination with racing began at a tender age of 8, when he started karting. His natural talent and dedication led him to become the Dutch junior champion in 1984, followed by two European titles.
Verstappen's transition to car racing in 1991 marked the beginning of his journey to Formula One. He won the European championship in Formula Opel Lotus in his first year, earning him an offer to drive in Formula Three with Van Amersfoort Racing. His success in German Formula Three, including the 1993 Marlboro Masters and the German Formula 3 championship, paved the way for his Formula One debut.
Verstappen's first Formula One test came in 1993 with the Footwork Arrows team. He eventually made his debut in 1994 with Benetton, racing for seven different teams during his eight-season stint. Although he didn't secure a championship, his two podium finishes remain a notable achievement.
After retiring from Formula One in 2003, Verstappen went on to win races in A1 Grand Prix and Le Mans Series LMP2. His crowning achievement came in 2008 when he won the 24 hours of Le Mans LMP2 class.
Verstappen's most significant contribution to the racing world lies in coaching and managing his son, Max. From an early age, Jos nurtured Max's talent, guiding him through karting and eventually to Formula One. As Max's manager, Jos played a crucial role in his son's rise to becoming a three-time Formula One Drivers' Champion (2021, 2022, and 2023).
Jos Verstappen's influence on motorsport extends beyond his on-track achievements. As a pioneering Dutch driver, he has inspired a generation of racers. His dedication to coaching and managing his son has raised the bar for driver development, cementing his status as a racing icon.
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