He completes his office work the old-fashioned way, by using a notepad. As Max Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen wants to be in charge of the entire field. “Cheating is enjoyable. I’m also proud if one doesn’t work out.”
Raymond, we’ve had three Grands Prix at Zandvoort, but Austria and Belgium are also home races for Max. Could you have predicted that he would cause such a mass frenzy?
“No, you don’t foresee that beforehand. However, if you look at him standing there and how… it actually began in Austria back in 2016.
That was the beginning of it. Subsequently, we worked closely with Red Bull to maintain that momentum. Not only with Max, but also by narrating the circuit’s fantastic tale—one that has excellent facilities and a superb atmosphere. We were able to map that Grand Prix together, and they handled everything expertly.”
Was that, in retrospect, the Austrian GP’s salvation?
“I believe there will always be times when the stadium is a little bit more crowded, but overall, the sport is growing. Naturally, with Max leading the way as well as the championship, Formula 1 is doing very well right now.”
What do you think the impact of Max has entailed?
“I think he has been one of the leading figures in that. Not just in the performance he gives on the track, but also how he is with the fans… But I do think the new generation, guys like Charles (Leclerc), Carlos (Sainz) and Lando (Norris) are attracting a new audience.”
What precisely do you do with that world, and how do you get there?
“In the end, what matters is how Max does while staying on course. As we have always stated, the key is to perform on schedule. Max distinguishes himself in this way, as you can see,
and as a result he gains the status he currently holds: he begins as the “boy next door,” but as soon as he puts on a helmet, he transforms into a lion and tries to eat everyone. And I believe that appeals to people.”
What could be the cause of the craze and attention around Max, particularly in the Netherlands?
“The Netherlands is a country that, in my opinion, chases success the moment it feels it—just watch the Dutch national team.” It’s amazing to witness that. However, it is pleasing to observe that such Dutch supporters are as abundant at other circuits. Max’s performance on the track is the reason that thing turned out that way.
Is Max going to drive for another club in the future?
“Let’s consider that for 2028. Max might be the first driver to arrive at the same team and stop there first. That might be a different Verstappen tale.”
A totally unrelated and private question: “How would you describe your typical office workday?
“It’s not work in my opinion at all. For me, it’s both a passion and a pastime that I really enjoy. My work is done seven days a week.
I simply attempt to continue going to the gym three times a week after getting up like everyone else. After that, I work on it all day long, covering everything from sponsorship agreements to taxes and legal issues.
When you are enjoying your work so much, you also maintain your energy.
“No, I just love to do this; it’s just in my nature.” Naturally, I don’t always have a good time; I do occasionally have bad days. For example, when things become a little more complicated legally. However, each day is unique.”
Max participates actively in the activities that he should.
“I know exactly when I need to talk to him about something before I commit to it. Naturally, I’ve known Max for a very long time, so I am aware of exactly what I must also involve him in. I want his support when I agree to something. And we don’t do anything if he’s not the one behind it. That is all there is to it.”
What happens next?
“Global expansion. It is intended to be expanded.
“You receive a great deal of energy in return for the energy you provide.
That’s kind of the tale of you as a manager, to put it simply. “Yeah, we also have a terrific time together in private. Of course, it’s good to receive praise, but I really like the achievements. Deal-making is enjoyable. Even if one fails, I still take pride in it. Our ultimate goal is to maximize the commercial potential of this.
