Jos' Hungarian GP trophy still cherished

Published on 19 July 2015 by Stefan Meens

While Max and Jos Verstappen travel to Budapest for the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix, Frans Verstappen will watch the race once again at Dancing Housemans. Max' granddad is likely to be joined by a big group of fans, ready the support the young Dutchman. Frans is hoping for celebrations similar to the ones 21 years ago. Back then, his son Jos took his first podium in F1, at the Hungaroring.

“At 'De Rotonde' pub we watched the race with about 2000 fans. But after Jos crossed the line in third, the number probably rose to 3000”, remembers Frans. “Everyone came to our pub, the whole village was packed. People were dancing in the street.”

“The party in the south of the Netherlands didn’t stop. On Monday the pub was full again. Not just the locals, but from all over the place people came for a drink. They kept coming but on Tuesday I said the 'party's over'.”

Jos' third placed trophy ended up at Frans' pub. “It attracted a lot of people, everyone wanted to see the trophy and they wanted their picture taken with it. I had to pay attention that no one took it. After that, I placed the trophy in my go kart shop. It now shines in my ice cream parlour."

Frans is realistic ahead of the upcoming Grand Prix. “This place would go crazy if Max achieved a podium like his dad. However, we have to remain realistic. Nevertheless, I enjoy supporting my grandson as much as cheering on my own son. I'm just as proud of Max as I was of Jos. I mean, who can say they have two Formula 1 drivers in their family in their live time? That's pretty special. And trust me, we'll see one of them become world champions”, smiles Frans.

So join Frans, upcoming Sunday at Dancing Housemans, which will once again transform in the place to be to see Max race. There is ample parking as well as the opportunity to buy all the Max Verstappen/Scuderia Toro Rosso. Of course entry is free.