Praise for Verstappen: 'Max would succeed in..

Praise for Verstappen: ‘Max would succeed in this racing class without a… Read More 👇

Formula E, now ten seasons into its existence, has steadily grown into one of the most exciting and distinctive racing series in the world of motorsport. While the championship may still contend with various misconceptions, particularly in comparison to Formula 1, its unique challenges and the skill required to master its intricacies make it an appealing class in its own right. Among the many voices offering praise for the series and its drivers, one notable name stands out: Max Verstappen. According to Formula E driver Oliver Rowland, the Dutchman has the ability to excel in Formula E, just as he does in Formula 1.

Formula E presents a vastly different set of challenges than Formula 1. Central to its difficulty is the management of battery power—a skill not every driver can master. While the racing itself may seem familiar to fans of traditional motorsport, the strategic nuances required to balance speed and energy conservation are what set it apart. It is precisely this balance that has proven difficult for even some seasoned drivers, including former Formula 1 talents like Antonio Giovinazzi and Felipe Massa. Both were respected drivers in Formula 1 but struggled to find the same success in Formula E, highlighting how different the demands of the series can be.

Given the distinct nature of Formula E, the question of which current Formula 1 drivers might thrive in this electric series naturally arises. Oliver Rowland, a prominent figure in Formula E and a seasoned competitor himself, offered his thoughts on the matter during a recent appearance on Formula E’s official podcast, “The Added Lap.” When asked which current Formula 1 driver would succeed in Formula E, Rowland’s response was immediate and unequivocal: “Max [Verstappen].”

Rowland’s confidence in Verstappen’s ability to transition to Formula E is rooted in the Dutchman’s extraordinary versatility and adaptability behind the wheel. “That guy can drive anything,” Rowland asserted. “He does simulator driving at night, Formula 1 during the day, GT3 testing in the holidays. Remember, what Max is capable of doing, his flexibility to race.” This praise from Rowland underscores Verstappen’s well-rounded skill set and his ability to adapt to various forms of racing—qualities that have made him a dominant force in Formula 1.

In addition to Verstappen, Rowland also mentioned Charles Leclerc as another Formula 1 driver who could likely handle the demands of Formula E with ease. Leclerc, like Verstappen, is known for his exceptional talent and quick learning curve, traits that would serve him well in the unique environment of Formula E.

But what sets Verstappen apart in Rowland’s eyes is not just his skill on the track, but also his respect and understanding of Formula E as a series. Rowland pointed out that while some people—drivers and non-drivers alike—might dismiss or underestimate Formula E, Verstappen is not among them. “The competition is very strong,” Rowland said of Formula E. “Some drivers don’t even know what they’re talking about, others say complete nonsense about Formula E. Max watches every race he can and is friends with most of the drivers in the category, so it’s good to see this [positive] comment from Max.”

Verstappen’s respect for Formula E and his connection with its drivers speak to his broader appreciation for motorsport as a whole. Despite the differences between Formula 1 and Formula E, Verstappen recognizes the skill and dedication required to compete at the highest level in both series. His friendships with many Formula E drivers further underscore his genuine interest in and support for the championship.