On Daily Routines, we profile successful leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, executives and athletes to explore their routines, schedules, habits and day in the life.
In the high-octane world of Formula 1, Max Verstappen has made a name for himself as one of the sport’s leading figures. His journey in Formula 1 is marked by a series of impressive achievements and career highlights that set him apart.
Notably, the Dutch driver holds the record as the youngest driver to compete in Formula 1, making his debut at just 17 years of age. His meteoric rise was further cemented by becoming the youngest-ever race winner in Formula 1 history.
His success on the track is not just a product of his racing skills but also a testament to his disciplined daily routine. So, what does a day in the life of this racing superstar look like? From the crack of dawn to the end of the day, his routine is a finely-tuned balance of physical preparation, mental fortitude, and essential downtime.
Max Verstappen’s morning routine
Verstappen’s day begins at the early hour of 7.30 am, setting the stage for a schedule marked by meticulous time management. As the Formula 1 champion himself puts it, “It’s important for me to stay organised, but I’m lucky I have a team that builds a lot of my schedule.”
This organisation is crucial, especially considering the varied and often hectic nature of his activities, particularly during Formula 1 weekends. “I don’t have a typical workday, except during the Formula 1 weekend itself,” Verstappen revealed in a 2022 interview with the Australian Financial Review. These days are a mix of intense focus and strategic planning, reflecting the demands of his high-profile career in motorsport.
When it comes to breakfast, his approach is flexible, sometimes skipping the meal depending on his appetite. “I usually wake up at 7.30 and I’m normally getting to the gym at 8.45,” he told Stefan Meens in 2015. “Sometimes I have breakfast before I start and other times I don’t; it all depends, because sometimes I am not that hungry.”
On days when he does eat in the morning, he often opts for nutritious options like eggs and yoghurt. This flexibility in his morning routine is indicative of a larger principle that guides his daily life: the importance of listening to his body and adjusting his schedule accordingly.
Workout and Training Regimen
The young racing star’s training regimen is as disciplined as it is rigorous, specifically tailored to meet the unique demands of Formula 1 racing. A significant portion of his workout is dedicated to strengthening his neck, upper body, and core, all vital for withstanding the intense forces experienced during races.
Verstappen recalled on his blog, “In the gym, in the last month, we focused a lot on my neck, my upper body, and my core stability.” This focus ensures that he maintains the physical resilience needed to compete at the highest levels of motor racing.
In addition to strength training, he incorporates endurance exercises into his routine, often engaging in activities like running and cycling in the afternoons. These exercises are crucial for maintaining his stamina, a key component for enduring the gruelling nature of Formula 1 races.
Despite the necessity of these workouts for his career, he candidly admits a certain reluctance towards them. He told GQ, “I hate going to the gym, so I do everything at home and try to make it a little bit fun.” His weekly training is a balanced mix of intense and more relaxed sessions. This variety not only keeps the routine engaging but also ensures that he gets the right mix of strenuous exercise and necessary recovery time.
Recovery and Self-Care
Recovery and self-care are pivotal elements in the Formula 1 driver’s routine, encompassing both physical recuperation and mental well-being. Verstappen approaches the psychological pressures of racing with a grounded perspective. “I don’t think about pressure too much. I know that once I am in the car, I have to deliver and I have to do the best I can; but, I also tell myself I cannot do more than my best,” he explained in an interview with Men’s Health.
Physical recovery is equally crucial for Verstappen. After gruelling races and training sessions, he utilises specific tools to aid in his recovery. “I use Theragun to accelerate my recovery and reduce any soreness after getting out of the car,” he mentioned in the same interview, indicating his reliance on modern recovery technology to maintain his physical condition.
Beyond the racetrack and gym, the world champion values his leisure time, engaging in activities that allow him to unwind and relax. He shared in an interview with Australian Financial Review, “Watching TV, on my simulator, or I game with friends. Or I just spend time with my family and close ones.” These moments are vital for his mental health, providing a necessary escape from the high-pressure environment of Formula 1.
During the off-season, Verstappen’s focus shifts entirely away from racing, allowing him to recharge fully. He remarked to Australian Financial Review, “I won’t be thinking about Formula 1! I’ll be relaxing with friends and family, just like everyone else.” This period is crucial for maintaining a balanced lifestyle, ensuring that he returns to the racing season refreshed and ready to compete at his best.
