Max wins International Racing Driver of the Year Award

Published on 07 February 2022 by Niels Hendrix

Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen is the winner of Autosport’s 2021 International Racing Driver of the Year Award.

The Dutchman took ten wins and ten pole positions on his way to his first Formula 1 title. Fans have voted Verstappen the best racing driver of 2021, ahead of main rival Hamilton, IndyCar champion Alex Palou and Formula E title winner Nyck de Vries.

Max said: “First of all, I would like to say a big thank for you to all the fans for voting for me to win this award. All the support over the year was amazing. I would like to thank Red Bull Racing and Honda for giving me the car to win the world championship.”

Red Bull Racing boss Christian Horner accepted the award on behalf of Verstappen, adding: “Obviously Max has developed and matured over the last few years. The way he drove last year was outstanding and to go up against Lewis Hamilton who was at the top of his game. Max led more laps than any other driver and won more races. Max thoroughly deserves this award.”

Former winners include Formula 1 world champions Niki Lauda, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, Mika Hakkinen, Sebastian Vettel, Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill, Jenson Button and Hamilton.