Max Verstappen opens up on pressure of sensational maiden F1 victory

Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has reflected on his extraordinary maiden victory at the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix. 

Speaking during a video with F1, Verstappen recently opened up about the whirlwind of emotions and the immense pressure that accompanied his sensational debut for Red Bull.

Promoted to the Milton Keynes outfit mid-season, the Dutchman was thrust into the spotlight in Barcelona. "That was a crazy one," Verstappen said. "Of course, just being promoted to Red Bull and then jumping in, not really expecting anything, just trying to score good points."

However, after a dramatic first lap, which included a crash between the two Mercedes team-mates, Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, Verstappen found himself with the opportunity for a podium finish.

"But after lap one, I think the opportunity was there for a podium," he continued. "To end up winning the race is just crazy. I have no other words for that because it was so hectic the whole weekend already, or the week leading up to it."

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull Racing, Team Principal Christian Horner

Photo by: Clive Mason/Getty Images

Adding to the pressure, Verstappen had the looming presence of Ferrari veteran Kimi Raikkonen in the final stint of the race.

"And then, not really knowing the car yet, the first time doing a race distance in it, I was just learning all the way. And then I had Kimi behind me, trying to pass me," Verstappen added.

"So there was a lot of pressure, but at the end of the day we managed to keep it in the lead and a very emotional first win, that's for sure."

Since his maiden win in 2016, Verstappen has won 70 more grands prix, secured 127 podium finishes, four consecutive championships between 2021 and 2024, and 48 pole positions. He currently sits seventh in the 2026 drivers' standings with 26 points after a rocky start to the season for Red Bull.