Max Verstappen’s Classy Reaction to Nico Hulkenberg’s Podium Goes Viral originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Max Verstappen didn’t exactly have the Sunday he was hoping for under those classic gloomy British skies, a far cry from his usual dominant race days. But even when things didn’t go his way, Verstappen still found a way to put a smile on fans’ faces.
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While he was dealing with his own frustrations, he made sure to cheer on his friend Nico Hulkenberg, who finally got to stand on an F1 podium for the first time in his career. Verstappen’s genuine reaction to Hulkenberg’s big moment was pure class, and the internet couldn’t help but love him for it.
The clip that’s got everyone talking shows an onboard shot of Max Verstappen absolutely punching the air with excitement as he drove past Nico Hulkenberg to congratulate him on snagging third at the British Grand Prix. It was such a cool moment Verstappen celebrating Hulkenberg’s huge milestone right there on track.
After 239 starts and holding that dreaded record for the most races without a podium, Hulkenberg finally got his trophy, and you could feel how special it was. Seeing a fellow driver and friend like Verstappen cheer him on made it all the more heartwarming for fans and the paddock alike.
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Verstappen recently took over the title of the only dad in the paddock from Hulkenberg, and honestly, these two get along really well. There’s a ton of mutual respect between them, both on and off the track.
After Verstappen bagged his fourth title, Hulkenberg had nothing but praise for him, saying, “He’s just so strong, so quick all the time, no matter the conditions or temperature. He barely makes mistakes and always squeezes out every bit of performance, even if he doesn’t have the best car.” It’s clear these two genuinely appreciate what the other brings to the grid.
Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen (NED) races during the qualifying session of the Canadian Grand Prix.David Kirouac-Imagn Images
As for Verstappen, well, the race was definitely one he’d like to forget. After starting on pole, he ended up crossing the line in fifth, not exactly what you expect from a four-time world champ. A mix of a rough car setup and a few uncharacteristic mistakes made it a pretty frustrating day at the office for him. Now, he’s sitting 69 points behind Oscar Piastri in the drivers’ championship, so he’s got some serious ground to make up.
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Related: Max Verstappen Cracks Fatherhood Joke Before Leading British GP From Pole
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
