Teenager Max Verstappen set to become youngest driver in F1 history

Max Verstappen

Sixteen-year-old racer Max Verstappen will see the five red lights illuminate to start his career as a F1 driver in the 2015 season. Scuderia Toro Rosso announced on Monday that the Dutchman would replace Jean-Éric Vergne and partner Daniil Kvyat in the next season.

Verstappen made quick leaps in his career after starting to kart at the age of seven. Son of former F1 driver Jos Verstappen, he became the karting world champion. The teenage sensation took his exploits to F3 by racing for Van Amersfoort Racing. Currently second in the overall standings, Verstappen has won eight races and earned 13 podium places.

A week before being announced as Toro Rosso’s driver, Verstappen had joined the Red Bull Junior team. Ecstatic by the chance to drive amongst the best, Verstappen said that he would give his absolute best to be successful in the pinnacle of motorsport.

“Ever since I was seven years old, Formula 1 has been my career goal, so this opportunity is truly a dream come true,” he said.

Verstappen's first race is scheduled to be in March 2015 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The youngster will turn 17 by the time he takes the wheels of the Toro Rosso.

Here is a list of the youngest drivers in F1.

Youngest F1 Drivers, Max Verstappen (right)