F1 star Max Verstappen give his verdict on Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi debate

The Formula 1 star provides a cryptic reply to Messi and Ronaldo’s debate.

Reigning Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen provided insight into the divergent approaches of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in an intriguing conversation on the never-ending GOAT debate. Verstappen acknowledged the distinctive abilities of both legends but declined to name a clear favourite.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Four time world champion!!! A season with a lot of challenges, but we worked hard as a team. I am very proud of us 🏆 This would never have been possible without all the dedication and effort of everyone at @redbullracing 🙌 A huge thank you to all involved for this… pic.twitter.com/mnekjbdC3a

— Max Verstappen (@Max33Verstappen) November 24, 2024

With an incredible 13 Ballon d’Or trophies and more than 1,700 goals between them, Messi and Ronaldo have captivated the football world for more than ten years. With no end in sight, the rivalry still sparks heated discussions among both fans and commentators.

In 2021, Verstappen had a distinct viewpoint on this football match in an interview with ViaPlay. He said, as reported by Hindustan Times, when given the choice between Messi and Ronaldo:

“They’re extremely different, so I can’t possibly choose. It’s virtually impossible for me to decide because, while I believe Messi possesses greater natural talent, Cristiano’s relentless dedication and exceptional fitness are equally impressive. What he continues to achieve at his age is nothing short of remarkable, illustrating how one can attain excellence through hard work as well.”

Both athletes continue to play important roles for their teams as they approach retirement. Messi, 37, is currently a sensation in Major League Soccer, where he recently helped the team win the Supporters’ Shield this season but his side couldn’t manage to win the MLS Cup after being eliminated by Atlanta United.

The 39-year-old Ronaldo, on the other hand, is still playing well in the Saudi Pro League. He has scored 16 goals and supplied three assists in his previous 18 games with Al-Nassr in all competitions.

Neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Lionel Messi were nominated for 2024 Ballon d’Or

Interestingly, neither of these legends made the 30-man 2024 Ballon d’Or shortlist. Messi, who previously won the trophy three times in a row in 2019, 2022, and 2023, is now nominated for the 2024 FIFA Best Men’s Player award, hoping for an unprecedented fourth victory. Ronaldo, on the other hand, has won the FIFA Best Men’s Player award twice, in 2016 and 2017.

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