F1 star Verstappen leads double life

Mar 24, 2017 - 4:33 PM Dutch teenager Max Verstappen is leading a double life.

Most recognise the 19-year-old as a precocious Formula One driver, destined to one day be the world's best.

But there's another side to the Red Bull Racing teammate of Australian Daniel Ricciardo.

And it manifests in the soccer video game FIFA 17.

"I like to play the ultimate team option so you can buy players and select your own side," Verstappen said.

"They update the cards every week with new players so you try to buy them. And you get (virtual) coins for winning matches.

"I don't play the racing games.

"I play people all over the world at FIFA. And they wouldn't know it is me because my name is completely different online."

Verstappen made his F1 debut aged 17. A year later, he became the sport's youngest grand prix winner.

He also holds records for the youngest driver to claim grand prix points, and finish on the podium - a position he's eyeing again at the Australian Grand Prix.

"If I have the car, I can challenge for the title," Verstappen said.

"But will it be this year? I don't know yet.

"I try to play everything down and we will see what happens during the season.

"I don't think we are the strongest team. But I am pretty confident we can develop the car over the year.

"I don't set any expectations. I just jump in the car, enjoy myself and then we will see."

Source: AAP