Formula 1 is rightfully called ‘the pinnacle of motorsports.’ Now, this nickname is self-explanatory, but in the past few years, many began to question it. However, in 2021, those questions were answered as the popularity of F1 was on full display, something now statistically backed by an official report. But one region in that report towers above the rest, thanks to Max Verstappen.

Recently, Formula 1 released the viewing figures for the 2021 season. And the figures from Netherland were quite unbelievable.

According to the report, “There were significant rises in season cumulative audience in several markets, including many of our biggest markets. The Netherlands stood out with an increase of +81%.”

Also worth pointing out are the numbers from the United States where there was an increase of 58% in the cumulative audience and 53% in TV Unique Viewers.

Max Verstappen

Despite coming out on top in 2021, Max Verstappen would want to prove that his championship wasn’t won because of external reasons, according to Jenson Button. “I’m sure he wants to come out fighting and fight for victory from the word go,” the 2009 world champion said.

“It’s kind of a World Championship he has won, but I’m sure he wants to go and win another so he can go ‘look, it wasn’t down to Michael Masi’.”

Button described how it is always difficult whenever there’s a controversial ending. But it wouldn’t bother the Dutchman because “he’s an exceptional talent.”

It remains to be seen how Max Verstappen defends his crown in a season that will be full of lingering vengeance, of a point to prove, of underdogs, and of course, the new cars and regulations.

This was something F1 President Stefano Domenicali also spoke about recently, “We are looking forward to our record breaking 23 race season this year, with new cars, new regulations, and a new challenge for all the teams and drivers.”

“I know all of our fans can’t wait to get the season started.”

He’s right.

Also Read: Max Verstappen’s F1 Title Campaign a ‘Hurdle’ to Red Bull RB18 Development