Max Verstappen has built a reputation as one of the most dominant and aggressive drivers in Formula 1 history. The Red Bull star has crushed the competition in recent seasons, securing three consecutive world championships. However, despite his success, he remains a divisive figure in the F1 paddock, often drawing criticism for his aggressive driving style and on-track demeanor. One former champion recently took a brutal swipe at Verstappen, claiming he wouldn’t survive in a different era of racing.

A former F1 champion, whose career earnings exceeded $30 million, unleashed a fierce attack on Verstappen’s character, arguing that the Dutch driver has had it relatively easy compared to previous generations. The outspoken former champion suggested that Verstappen’s dominance is largely due to Red Bull’s superior car rather than sheer driving skill. He claimed that if Verstappen had raced in a different era, he would have struggled to handle the intense competition, adding, “He’d cry like a baby.”

This comment has ignited debates among fans and experts. Some argue that Verstappen’s success is undeniably linked to Red Bull’s technological superiority, with Adrian Newey’s groundbreaking car design playing a crucial role. Others insist that Verstappen’s natural talent, fearless overtaking, and ability to extract maximum performance from his car make him one of the greatest drivers of all time.

The criticism, however, touches on a broader discussion about how modern F1 differs from past decades. The sport has evolved significantly, with safety measures, advanced aerodynamics, and team strategies playing a much larger role. In previous eras, drivers had to deal with dangerous circuits, minimal driver assistance, and intense wheel-to-wheel battles that often ended in serious crashes. Many veteran drivers believe that today’s generation, including Verstappen, benefits from a relatively “easier” version of the sport.

The ex-champion’s remarks also raise an interesting question: how would Verstappen have fared in an era where driver skill was the primary differentiator? While Verstappen is known for his aggressive approach and unwavering confidence, older drivers competed under conditions that demanded sheer physical endurance, mechanical knowledge, and adaptability. Some believe Verstappen would have thrived in any era, while others argue that he lacks the resilience to deal with the unpredictable nature of past F1 racing.

One of the most common criticisms against Verstappen is his temperament. Throughout his career, he has been involved in multiple controversial moments, including heated rivalries with Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and even his own Red Bull teammate, Sergio Perez. Critics argue that Verstappen is used to having things his way at Red Bull and hasn’t truly faced adversity in a car that isn’t the fastest on the grid. In contrast, previous champions had to endure seasons with less competitive machinery, often switching between teams to prove their worth.

Despite the harsh criticism, Verstappen’s fans remain loyal, pointing to his record-breaking achievements as proof of his greatness. The Dutchman has shattered multiple records, including the most wins in a single season and the longest winning streak. His ability to dominate races from start to finish, maintain consistency, and execute flawless racecraft under pressure cannot be overlooked.

Even though past champions have questioned Verstappen’s mental toughness, the reality is that the sport has changed. Today’s drivers must master complex technical aspects of their cars, adapt to ever-changing regulations, and manage tire strategies with extreme precision. While the physical demands of driving have evolved, the pressure to perform at the highest level remains just as intense.

In the end, debates like these will always exist in Formula 1. Comparing different eras is difficult due to the vast differences in technology, regulations, and competition levels. While some may question Verstappen’s ability to handle old-school racing conditions, there’s no denying that he is the most dominant driver of his generation. Love him or hate him, Max Verstappen has already secured his place among the all-time greats of Formula 1.