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Former Mercedes F1 CEO Nick Fry doesn’t believe Max Verstappen will be remembered as “the most heroic” and the driver “who they’ll make movies about”.
In a revealing interview with Online Betting Guide, former Mercedes F1 CEO Nick Fry (also one of the main people responsible for Brawn GP’s success) was asked who he believes is the greatest Formula 1 driver of all time.
Fry proceeded to say he doesn’t believe Max Verstappen will be on that list in the future.
“Everybody has their own view on who the greatest driver ever is,” Fry said.
“I think it’s a personal choice as it’s not just about winning races.
“Max Verstappen can very well finish as the most successful driver ever, but I’m not sure if he’ll be the most heroic and the one who’ll they’ll make movies about.
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“All of the truly great drivers have done something as well as winning races, great achievement though that is.”
He then proceeded to discuss other legendary drivers.
“I’ve known Jackie Stewart for decades, and he championed the safety side of the sport. He stood up with all the other drivers and campaigned for better safety.
“He commercialized and professionalized the sport as a whole. He’ll always be remembered for that.
“Jenson Button won a World Championship with Brawn GP, and he’ll always be remembered for that lone title because it was so unexpected. Michael Schumacher will be remembered for more than winning.
“My personal favourite is Ayrton Senna. He added a romantic appeal to the sport because he was mysteriously thoughtful, super bright, and died before his time.
“He was the James Dean of F1. It’s a predictable answer, but he’d be on my list as the greatest of all time. It’s more than just winning races.”
When it was suggested to Fry that his list would then feature Senna and Schumacher, Fry said Lewis Hamilton is his third choice.
“I think Lewis Hamilton would be my third choice behind Senna and Schumacher. Hamilton has done a lot to broaden the appeal of F1.
“It’s not just due to his race, but also his interest in music and carving his own path. He’s doing his own thing, appealing to a new crowd who have been introduced to F1 as a result.
“You also have to consider drivers’ starting points. Lewis came from a very regular background, and Lewis is up there due to what he’s been able to achieve himself,” Fry concluded.
