The Formula 1 world has seen Max Verstappen join the prestigious ranks of four-time World Champions, a club that includes Alain Prost among its members.
However, for Prost, this parallel is merely coincidental; he is confident that Verstappen’s trophy cabinet will continue to expand in the coming seasons.
Prost, known for his straightforward commentary, once questioned the value of Verstappen’s titles if they were not earned through battles with multiple top teams.
However, after Verstappen clinched his fourth championship in 2024 with a car that was not always superior to McLaren or Ferrari, Prost has seemingly shifted his perspective. “He’s a great champion, he’s proven he’s the best, so being level with four titles with someone like him doesn’t worry me.
“In fact, I’m sure he can surpass me, and he definitely will in the coming years,” Prost said in an interview with ‘RCM’.
When asked if he could compare Verstappen to any drivers from his era, Prost hesitated before drawing a parallel with his former McLaren teammate, the 1984 champion Niki Lauda. “Max is like Niki when it comes to frankness, there’s no doubt about that.
“If you asked Lauda something, the answer was always honest, and Verstappen is very appealing in that way, as he always says what he thinks. Regarding the rest, I can’t judge,” Prost commented, reflecting on the similarities between the two legends.
Reflecting on his earlier statements after Red Bull’s dominant 2023 season, where they secured 21 victories out of 22 races, Prost had a different take. “Nowadays, the big teams are somewhat more organized with a number one and number two driver, especially with Max Verstappen at Red Bull.
“It’s a bit different from my time, but I still believe that if you have a championship fight with two or three different teams, the value of the winning driver is always higher,” he argued.
As the F1 community gears up for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on the Australian Grand Prix, which kicks off on March 16. This race will be held over 58 laps on the challenging 5.278-kilometer Albert Park semi-street circuit, setting the stage for what could be another season of Verstappen’s dominance or perhaps a resurgence from the chasing pack.
