The highly-anticipated Italian Grand Prix is finally underway, as Max Verstappen seeks to break one of the greatest records ever created by a Formula 1 driver. Back in 2013, four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel raced his way to nine consecutive victories, subsequently entering seemingly uncharted territory. However, over a decade later, the widely acclaimed flying Dutchman has managed to equal Vettel’s incredible feat almost effortlessly.
Furthermore, the Red Bull superstar is now a mere race win away from breaking the record as well. Hence, many might wonder if Vettel is even barely pleased with Verstappen threatening to dethrone him with a potential 10th race victory on the trot at Monza this weekend. However, in reality, Vettel is anything but insecure about Verstappen’s recent run of form.
If anything, the former Red Bull world champion is looking forward to seeing the Dutchman create history with the much-yearned Italian Grand Prix victory. Quite recently, Verstappen admitted that he had received a text from Vettel, urging the defending champion to beat his unbroken win streak.
“I think at five wins in a row or something, Seb texted me and said ‘Well done, keep it up’ and something like ‘You’re going to do it’. Nine in a row is something very impressive and I never thought I would be on eight,” Verstappen said ahead of the Dutch GP last weekend. And now, here’s another interesting message Vettel had for Dr. Helmut Marko ahead of the race weekend in Italy.
Is Sebastian Vettel jealous of the unbeaten Max Verstappen run?
According to Red Bull advisor, Dr. Helmut Marko, Vettel has demanded Verstappen to keep the win streak alive for as long as possible and make sure it stays with him forever. “And Sebastian isn’t jealous, by the way. He recently sent me a message saying that we should aim for twelve consecutive victories so that the record remains in our hands forever,” Marko revealed according to Telegraaf.
Sebastian Vettel messaged Helmut Marko saying they should aim for 12 consecutive wins, so the record stands forever ❤️
“And Sebastian isn’t jealous, by the way. He recently sent me a message saying that we should aim for twelve consecutive victories, so that the record remains… pic.twitter.com/uTGuH2xEzN
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) September 2, 2023
Considering how the season has played out so far, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Verstappen managed to sustain his win streak to the end of the season. Red Bull are miles ahead of their rivals in the development race and Verstappen, himself, has often proved to be one of the greatest talents in the sport.
Hence, amidst such a deadly combo currently running riot over the entire grid, can Verstappen pull off the unattainable feat in Formula 1 and fulfill Vettel’s wish? Only time will tell.