Dutchman Verstappen Makes History, Becomes Youngest Formula One Winner

By siliconindia | Wednesday, 18 May 2016, 05:38 Hrs

BENGALURU: Sunday’s Formula One race proved to be “dream come true” for Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen. As he raced past the chequered flag in the Spanish Grand Prix marking his victory, the 18-year-old Dutchman also registered his name as the youngest F1 winner till date. The title was previously held by former Red Bull and current Ferrari driver Sebastian Vettel. The Dutchman is also the youngest driver in the history of F1 when he made his debut for Toro Rosso at the age of 17.

In the past races Verstappen had continually showed his high speed driving skills that secured his promotion from Toro Rosso. Taking advantage of the first lap crash between Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton, both Mercedes drivers, Verstappen displayed his skills to outmanoeuvre all attacks and secure the victory in his 24th F1 race.

Ironically, this historic moment also deserves the mention of Daniil Kvyat. Red Bull Racing driver, Kvyat’s twin crash with Sebastian Vettel during the Russian Grand Prix saw Kvyat dropping into Verstappen's seat in Red Bull's junior team Toro Rosso and the Dutchman’s promotion into the senior league. Team Principal, Christian Horner said during the media release for Verstappen's promotion, “Max has proven to be an outstanding young talent. His performance at Toro Rosso has been impressive so far and we are pleased to give him the opportunity to drive for Red Bull Racing."

Verstappen will hold the driving seat with Australia's Daniel Ricciardo in the Red Bull Racing garage for the remaining 17 races of the season. Verstappen's father Jos, who stepped down as the driver’s manager a day before the victory celebrated saying, "It's unbelievable, I can't believe this."

Currently Red Bull Racing with 94 points stands just behind Mercedes (157) and Ferrari (109) in the score board.