Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, recently made a remarkable statement about the legend Michael Schumacher. In an interview withSports picturethe Dutch said that he had offered the Schumacher family to visit the seven -time world champion, his opinion should be able to contribute to bringing Schumacher back to Formula 1. These words have made waves in the motorsport world, not only because of the emotional connection between Verstappen and Schumacher, but also because of the continuing fascination for Schumacher’s legacy and his health since his serious skiing accident in 2013.
The relationship between Verstappen and Schumacher goes far back. Max ’father, Jos Verstappen, was once team-mate of Michael Schumacher near Benetton in the 1990s. In his youth, Max spent a lot of time with the Schumacher family, especially at Kartrennen, where Michael was often traveling with his son Mick and Max. “I didn’t know who he really was at the time,” said Verstappen oppositeF1-Insider. “For me he was simply the nice uncle Michael, who always drove kart with us children.” These memories still shape Verstappen today, and his admiration for Schumacher is unmistakable. He describes the Germans as uncompromising on the track, but warm and family -oriented in private life – characteristics that Verstappen also sees with themselves.
Verstappen’s offer to visit Schumacher comes at a time when the Schumacher family lives very well. Since the accident in the French Alps, in which Schumacher suffered serious head injuries, there has been hardly any information about his condition. The family is covered and visits are limited to a small group of familiar. Verstappen words could therefore be interpreted as an expression of respect and hope, even if an actual visit remains unlikely. “I would do it if I think it could do something,” said Verstappen. “But I respect the family privacy.”
The statement also throws a light on Verstappen’s current situation in Formula 1. With four world championship titles, he is about to set Schumacher’s record of five titles in a row. But the 2025 season is turbulent for the Red Bull pilot. McLaren dominates Lando Norris and Oscar Piatri, while Red Bull is fighting technical problems. Verstappen is 49 points behind Piatri in the driver’s ranking, and his frustration over the lack of consistency of his car is noticeable. In Barcelona he made headlines when he received a ten-second penalty after a collision with George Russell, which threw him back in tenth place. “My emotions are sometimes boiled up,” Verstappen later admitted, but showed insight.
In addition to the sporting challenges, Verstappen is also personally at a turning point. In May 2025 he became the father of a daughter, Lily, with his partner Kelly Piquet. This new phase of life has fueled speculation about its future in Formula 1. Ex-pilot Ralf Schumacher, the brother of Michael, believes that Verstappen may soon be able to leave Formula 1 to spend more time with his family. “He has become a mature man who sets his priorities again,” said Schumacher in the Sky PodcastBackstage pit lane. However, Verstappen himself emphasizes that he wants to stay with Red Bull for the time being, even if his contract contains exit clauses.
The parallels between Verstappen and Schumacher cannot be overlooked. Both are considered uncompromising drivers who do not miss an opportunity to win. Verstappen himself sees these comparisons as confirmation of his style: “Michael always gave everything, and I do that too.” But while Schumacher is one of the greatest drivers of all time with seven titles, Verstappen emphasizes that he is less interested in records. “I drive to win, not to hunt numbers,” he said. Nevertheless, the question remains whether he could surpass Schumacher’s legacy one day.
Verstappen’s offer to Schumacher shows how deep the connection between the two families is. It is a sign of respect for a legend that shaped Formula 1 like no other. While the chances of a comeback from Schumacher are zero, Verstappen gesture underlines the emotional depth that goes through motorsport. For the fans it remains a touching moment that combines the past and presence of Formula 1 – and the hope that Schumacher’s legacy will live on, even if he is no longer on the wayside.
