Max Verstappen, a four time Formula One World Champion has shared his admiration for Lionel Messi, highlighting the Argentine’s exceptional ability to read the game and influence matches with ease.
Verstappen, widely regarded as one of the most dominant drivers in modern Formula One, pointed to Messi’s unique football intelligence, noting that the Inter Miami forward operates on a level that sets him apart from other players.
“Lionel Messi reads the game and can score whenever he sees the opportunity. Many have to run, create the space, but he doesn’t.”
The Dutchman also reflected on one of Messi’s standout moments during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, particularly his decisive contribution against the Netherlands in the quarterfinals.
“You think you can defend him but you can’t. The pass he made against Holland in Qatar, you can’t defend that”.
Messi’s performance in that tournament was widely celebrated, as he played a central role in leading Argentina to World Cup glory, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in football history.

