Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen debuted in Formula 1 in 2015 when he was just 17 years old. Verstappen’s name was added to the long list of Dutchmen who have participated in the history of Formula 1. However, apart from the world of racing, the reigning world champion was a huge fan of Johan Cruyff, a Dutch football legend who soon passed away after the former’s debut.

Max Verstappen had the opportunity to converse with Johan Cruyff during the winter testing with Toro Rosso (now RB). However, the Football legend was battling with cancer at the time and had soon passed away. Hence, eight years after Cruyff’s demise, Verstappen recalled the inspiration he got from the late legend.

The 26-year-old recalled that Cruyff was always an inspiration to him and that he met him back in 2016. Additionally, Verstappen recounted that the football legend was already sick by the time they met. Hence, the action of taking time out to meet the reigning world champion even after battling a serious sickness was ‘incredible.’

He was always an inspiration to me, and I met him in 2016, He was already ill then and that makes me think more and more today. When someone is already not feeling well and still makes the effort to visit you at the track....That was incredible.

Max Verstappen told Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo

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Johan Cryuff was infamous for his wholesome and meaningful talks. Verstappen was particularly a fan of this attribute of the Dutchman. As a result, the 26-year-old recalled Cruyff’s optimism while battling the cancer. The football legend believed in his strength to overcome the disease which unfortunately, didn’t turn out to be the case in the end.

He said to me, and I will never forget it, 'I may be 2-1 down at halftime, but I am going to win this race.' He was optimistic and thought he would overcome the disease, Unfortunately, that was not the case.

Max Verstappen added

Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)
Max Verstappen will always remember such crucial people from his past who motivated him to be so capable. He has continued to power through the struggles of Red Bull and overcame them to perform well. Hence, the coming seasons will continue to witness such impressive performances from the Dutchman.