Max Verstappen Describes FWD as 'The Worst Thing Ever,' Calling it 'Anti-Driving'

Max Verstappen Describes FWD as 'The Worst Thing Ever,' Calling it 'Anti-Driving'

      Ford Performance/YouTube

      Sign up for The Drive’s daily newsletter

      Stay updated with the latest car news, reviews, and features.

      Recently, Ford Performance released an incredible video featuring nearly 40 minutes of Chris Harris (one of the top car-video hosts) driving with Max Verstappen (one of the best racers) in some iconic vehicles, diving into discussions about setups and driving techniques. During their conversation, Harris asked the Dutch F1 champion for his thoughts on front-wheel drive, to which Verstappen gave a refreshingly candid answer.

      While they were driving an RS200 through the countryside, Harris recalled Verstappen’s astonishing save at the 2016 Brazilian Grand Prix, where the Dutch driver managed to regain control of his car during a spin in rainy conditions. If you haven’t seen it, it’s a remarkable display of composure under pressure:

      “Honestly, that one was like 50/50, 50 luck and 50 skill,” Verstappen remembered, then elaborated on his technique. “…as soon as I felt the traction returning, I realized that just before the barrier, if you release the brakes, you get the tire rolling speed, and you have a bit more—”

      “It almost pulls you forward, like front-wheel drive,” Harris chimed in, finishing his thought. Then, seizing the moment for a lighthearted question, Harris quickly asked: “Do you like front-wheel drive?”

      Verstappen didn’t hesitate in his response: “No.”

      “No, I find it really boring,” he expanded, which is amusing considering it wasn’t too long ago that he showcased the Honda Civic Type R.

      Harris teased him a bit, saying: “We call it wrong-wheel drive.”

      Verstappen continued, “For me, it’s just like, anti-driving, you know? …I’ve driven it a few times on the simulator as well. For me, it’s like the worst thing ever.”

      Harris provided a bit more context for viewers: “Also, what you’re asking of the tire seems like a huge burden. It has to steer and put down the power.”

      This led to a deeper discussion about racing style, with Verstappen noting that front-wheel-drive cars must be driven in a “V-style,” meaning the car should be as straight as possible when exiting a corner.

      This conversation occurs around the 14:30 mark of the Ford Performance video, but I highly recommend bookmarking it to watch the entire thing when you have time.

      While Verstappen's comments may sound discouraging to front-drive enthusiasts, remember that most of us would struggle to match the level Verstappen achieves, even after 1,000 laps around the Nürburgring in a Civic Type R—just because something doesn't suit his driving style doesn’t make it "wrong."

      However, if you can get Chris Harris to make this expression in the passenger seat, you can say whatever you want about cars.

      Ford Performance

      Have a tip? Reach out to us at [email protected].

Max Verstappen Describes FWD as 'The Worst Thing Ever,' Calling it 'Anti-Driving' Max Verstappen Describes FWD as 'The Worst Thing Ever,' Calling it 'Anti-Driving' Max Verstappen Describes FWD as 'The Worst Thing Ever,' Calling it 'Anti-Driving' Max Verstappen Describes FWD as 'The Worst Thing Ever,' Calling it 'Anti-Driving'

Other articles

Mercedes Aims to Launch 30 New Models Within Two Years: TDS Mercedes Aims to Launch 30 New Models Within Two Years: TDS The luxury standard is fully committing to a product-focused strategy to counter competition across all segments. GM engineers recently drove a Chevy Silverado EV for over 1,000 miles on a single charge. GM engineers recently drove a Chevy Silverado EV for over 1,000 miles on a single charge. The Silverado EV was able to exceed its EPA-rated range by more than twofold due to careful preparation, favorable weather conditions, and various hypermiling techniques. You could opt for a BMW X5 or invest the same amount in GMC's top model, the Acadia | Carscoops You could opt for a BMW X5 or invest the same amount in GMC's top model, the Acadia | Carscoops The family SUV delves into the realm of luxury with its substantial price and a well-known powertrain. 2025 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Review: Encounter Your Legends 2025 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Review: Encounter Your Legends The Lexus LC 500 convertible covers distances effortlessly and rewards you with joy. You'll Invest More Time Assembling This Bugatti Than A Billionaire Does Driving One | Carscoops You'll Invest More Time Assembling This Bugatti Than A Billionaire Does Driving One | Carscoops If you're looking for a small project to tackle this summer, this Lego Speed Champions model might be just what you need. Europe’s Initial Robotaxi Launch Features an Unexpected Name and Electric Vehicle | Carscoops Europe’s Initial Robotaxi Launch Features an Unexpected Name and Electric Vehicle | Carscoops The Apollo RT6 was built from scratch to be fully autonomous.

Max Verstappen Describes FWD as 'The Worst Thing Ever,' Calling it 'Anti-Driving'

Chris Harris and Max Verstappen, both iconic figures in the world of driving, engaged in a captivating conversation about cars and driving in this stunning video.