How young Max Verstappen left karting boss stunned

Giancarlo Tinini, the Italian owner of karting manufacturer CRG, has offered a rare insight into the early years of Max Verstappen, recalling the moment he first laid eyes on the four-time world champion and immediately recognised something special.

Speaking to De Telegraaf from Monza, where he was attending as a guest of the Verstappen family, Tinini reflected on what set the Red Bull driver apart from an exceptionally young age.

"What stands out most in my mind is Max's enormous drive to race," Tinini said. "He always wanted to push the limits, in every situation. 

"Even when he was very young, he was already incredibly professional and completely focused on what he was doing. You could clearly see that he wasn't just there to drive a few laps. He always wanted to understand how he could go even faster."

Verstappen signed a factory contract with CRG in November 2009, with Tinini already having an existing relationship with the family before the deal was formalised. 

"I already knew his father and mother, so there was already a connection," he said. "Max has been one of CRG's best ambassadors. 

"We're all very proud that he was part of our team and of what we've achieved together."

First meeting with Verstappen

For Tinini, 2013 stands as the defining chapter of their time together. "That was the year 2013," Tinini added. "Max won two European championships and a world title that year. 

"He was fighting for another world championship, in the KF class, but that was derailed after a collision. All in all, though, it was a fantastic season. A wonderful way to wrap things up."

The CRG owner also revealed that, despite his existing ties to the Verstappen family, he had no prior knowledge of Max when he first saw him on track. The impression, however, was instant.

"I can still remember that [the first time] very well," Tinini said. "Max was still too young to officially compete in an international race. I saw a CRG kart on the track with the number 3, without any real stickers, just the name 'Max.'"

"I had no idea who it was, but I was impressed by what he showed. I wanted to find out who he was right away, ran into Jos, and asked if he was one of his drivers. 

"Jos said, 'Well, no, this is my son.' Max was still very young, but I immediately asked if they were interested in joining our team. It was pretty clear right away just how talented he was."