Max Verstappen’s Kindness: A Heartwarming Moment Remembered by Will Buxton

Former Formula 1 TV presenter Will Buxton recently shared a touching story illustrating Max Verstappen’s character off the track, recounting a gesture the Red Bull driver made towards Buxton’s late father. The story highlights a side of the four-time Formula 1 champion often unseen by fans.

A Moment of Unexpected Kindness

Buxton reflected on the incident during an appearance on the Up To Speed podcast, describing it as “just lovely.” He explained that he first met Verstappen in 2014 when the driver was transitioning from karting to single-seaters.

During the 2014 Belgian Grand Prix, Buxton’s parents attended the race. His father was battling illness at the time and sadly passed away six months later. Amidst a rainy day at the track, Buxton, along with his parents, sought shelter in the Red Bull motorhome. It was there that Verstappen made an unexpected gesture.

“Max wasn’t to realize that at all, and it was raining, and so we ran into the Red Bull motorhome to get out of the rain, and Max was there, and he said, ‘Oh, are these your parents?’ I said, ‘Yeah, yeah, this is my mum, my dad.’ And Max introduced himself and he turned to my dad, and he said, ‘Oh, by the way, Will taught me everything I know due to the fact that we’d had that day racing together back in 2014,’” Buxton recounted.

A Lasting Impact

Buxton acknowledged the statement was “total rubbish,” but emphasized the thoughtfulness behind it. He explained that the gesture was entirely unnecessary, yet it deeply touched his father, who continued to share the story until his passing. “Max will never know how much that meant,” Buxton added.

Verstappen’s Character Beyond the Track

Buxton noted that Verstappen’s strong personality, often displayed through direct interviews and an aggressive driving style, can sometimes divide fans. However, he believes that those who know Verstappen away from the racetrack recognize him as a “lovely guy.” Buxton stated, “Even as rivals, have to accept their hat off and say on his day we just can’t do what Max does.”

This story offers a glimpse into the character of Max Verstappen, demonstrating a level of thoughtfulness and kindness that extends beyond his competitive persona in Formula 1.