F1 fans overwhelmingly pick Michael Schumacher over Max Verstappen in ‘GOAT’ debate

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Max Verstappen and Michael Schumacher commonly come up in debates about who is Formula 1’s ‘GOAT’ and according to fans, the latter takes the win.

Comparisons have constantly been made about the two drivers in recent times. It is hardly surprising, given that Schumacher taught Verstappen as a child in go-karts.

The pair never raced together in F1, but both went on to display incredible levels of dominance in their careers. Schumacher won seven titles, five of which consecutively with Ferrari – a feat that has never been repeated – while Verstappen won four in a row with Red Bull.

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Verstappen’s first 10 seasons in F1 share similarities to Schumacher’s, as they boast striking win records before going on to become champions. Showing blistering pace behind the wheel, as well as a unique driving style, they stand out amongst the best in history.

Naturally, this leads to debates around who is the better of the two. The stats point in favour of Schumacher, with 91 wins to Verstappen’s 71, 155 podiums to 127 and seven championships to four.

Verstappen’s most dominant season was better than Schumacher’s, with his 2023 campaign seeing him win 19 out of 22 races. The Dutchman is unquestionably one of F1’s best talents, but fans have put Schumacher ahead.

F1’s ‘GOAT’ – Michael Schumacher beats Max Verstappen

F1 Oversteer has been conducting a knockout bracket to determine who is F1’s ‘GOAT’. Schumacher and Verstappen locked horns in the semi-final, with the former coming out the victor.

The German won the 24-hour poll with 62% of the vote, with many fans pointing out his accomplishments in F1 and the impact he had on the sport.

When will Max Verstappen beat Michael Schumacher’s Formula 1 records?

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“Michael Schumacher. Talk to me again if Max hits 7 titles over two teams. Schumacher and Hamilton both spread their 7 titles over two teams. That is impressive in itself,” commented one user.

“Verstappen will go down as one of the greatest, but he’s a level below Schumacher right now. May be a different story in a few years’ time. For now, Schumacher,” said another.

One fan even likened Schumacher to Ayrton Senna: “Max is a brilliant driver but Michael made the car dance just like Senna.

READ MORE: Red Bull driver Max Verstappen’s life outside F1 from net worth to girlfriend

Max Verstappen has said he is ‘not interested’ in beating Michael Schumacher’s record

Verstappen is three titles away from equalling Schumacher’s record. He came within two points of winning his fifth crown in 2025, but Lando Norris clinched it at the final round in Abu Dhabi.

Verstappen is already one of F1’s most successful drivers and has said that he is ‘not interested’ in winning more and beating Schumacher.

He told F1.com in 2023: “It depends how competitive the car is in that last season as well, and maybe also it depends on the opportunities you have around Formula 1, or what you’re already doing outside of Formula 1 at the time, so at the moment it’s a bit difficult to imagine what’s going to happen past 2028.

Asked if being the greatest F1 driver of all time motivates him, he replied: “No. I’m not interested in winning seven or eight titles. If you have the car to do so, then great. But even if it doesn’t [happen], I’m happy – I’m already happy, so it’s OK!”