Dutch teenager Max Verstappen will become the youngest Formula One driver in history next year after Toro Rosso team confirmed this week he will replace Frenchman Jean-Eric Vergne in their lineup.
The 16-year-old is the son of former grand prix racer Jos. He turns 17 next month and is still technically too young to take his driving test in the Netherlands.
"Ever since I was seven years old, Formula One has been my career goal, so this opportunity is truly a dream come true," said Verstappen, who thanked his father and sponsors for their help, according to Reuters.
Even once he turns 17, he will still have to wait a year before he is allowed to drive unaccompanied on public roads at home, according to Reuters.
The sport's current youngest driver to date is Spaniard Jamie Alguersuari, who made his debut with the same Red Bull-owned team back in 2009.
Alguersuari was just 19 and 125 days. He was discarded at the end of 2011 and then left the sport.
Verstappen already has an impressive resume after starting in go-karts at the age of seven. He won a number of karting titles, including the world championship at the age of 15, and is currently competing for the European Formula Three title.
"We consider Max to be one of the most skilled young drivers of the new generation and we believe he has the necessary maturity and mental strength to take on this challenge successfully," said team principal Franz Tost in a statement, according to Reuters.
Verstappen will partner with Russian Daniil Kvyat, who made his debut with the team this year at the age of 19 years and 324 days.
"We've all worked tremendously hard to reach Formula One and I will give my absolute best to be successful in the pinnacle of motorsport," said Verstappen.
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