Ever since the inception of Formula 1, the sport has been home to several great drivers. Be it Michael Schumacher, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, Juan Manual Fangio or Lewis Hamilton, the argument for who the GOAT of the sport is never-ending. While the difference in eras and regulations is a big factor, it doesn’t stop experts and fans from naming their GOATs.

Bernie Ecclestone recently voiced his opinion on this subject. While comparing between different eras and regulations are borderline moot, Bernie’s involvement first hand within the sport gives him a unique perspective.

Bernie Ecclestone names “The Best Since Inception”

Bernie Ecclestone has spent a lot of time up close with several drivers over his career. To name a few, he has spent a lot of time with Niki Lauda, Jackie Stewart, Alain Prost and Michael Schumacher. Current generation of drivers, including Max Verstappen has also spent a considerable amount of time with the godfather of F1.

According to Bernie, Max Verstappen stands up above everyone else. Recently, in an interview with NOS, he revealed, “Max is the best driver to have driven in Formula 1 since the founding of the sport.”

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While some argue Verstappen has still a lot more to achieve before being given the title of GOAT, the former F1 honcho disagrees. In fact, this is not even the first time the veteran has voiced this opinion.

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Previously, in an interview with Daily Mail, Bernie had the following to say “Max is the best driver ever. No Doubts. I used to say Alain Prost. Now I would say it’s Max.” Despite having 4 fewer world championships than the current record of 7, the Dutch Lion seems to have impressed Ecclestone. Perhaps, it’s much more subjective than statistical records for the British business magnate.

The difference Between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen

Bernie also talked about the difference between Max and Lewis, the last two champions in Formula 1. “Lewis is obviously super-super bright, super-super talented. Lewis understands people and gets the best out of them, whereas Max gets the best out of the car.”

He doesn’t take anything away from Lewis’ abilities or accomplishments however. In fact, the 93-year-old points out to the struggles Lewis had to face when he was growing up. “In our sphere of Formula One, nobody is like Lewis. I think in his early days he was a bit different from other people.”

Currently, Verstappen is breezing through records. He recently broke the record of most consecutive wins in Monza. His, and by extension Red Bull’s dominance in the 2023 season is almost unheard of.

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What do you think of this debate? Do you think Max Verstappen has cemented himself as the greatest driver of all time? Or do you think Michael Schumacher’s or Lewis Hamilton legacy will never be matched? Let us know down below.