Eithad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: ‘Too early to judge Verstappen’s potential’

Abu Dhabi: Formula One’s most precocious talent, the 18-year-old Toro Rosso driver Max Verstappen, cannot yet be compared the legends of the sport, according to F1 legend Sir Jackie Stewart and Williams driver Valtteri Bottas.

In exclusive interviews, the pair dismissed ex-driver David Coulthard’s assertion that Verstappen had displayed qualities reminiscent of Michael Schumacher and Ayrton Senna in recent races.

Verstappen, who made his F1 debut at the Australian Grand Prix in March at the age of 17, is 12th in the drivers’ championship ahead of this weekend’s Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with 49 points.

“I think he’s had a great first year,” Bottas said before the Yas Marina Circuit race. “Obviously there was a lot of doubt about how good he could be at a young age.

“He’s proved he’s a quick learner. But comparing him to big names, I think it’s a bit too early. Let’s see.”

“I think Max and [teammate] Carlos [Sainz Junior] are both very good,” added Stewart, who won the world title three times in 1969, 1971 and 1973. “But it’s too early [to assess his potential]. We will have to wait and see.

“He’s definitely got all the right skill.”