The footballing world will keep a close eye on Sunday’s encounter between Barcelona and Real Madrid, in what will be the first Clasico of the season.
Former such as Gerard Pique, Jordi Alba and Guti have already given their verdicts and predictions ahead of the game.
But even outside football, big sporting personalities are equally excited about the clash, including F1 legend and four-time world champion, Max Verstappen.
Verstappen gives his verdict on Ballon d’Or and El Clasico
Max Verstappen is not bothered about the Ballon d’Or. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
Heading into this weeekend’s United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, Verstappen was about his thoughts on El Clasico as well as the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
He was quick to dismiss any thoughts on the Ballon d’Or, stating, “I don’t really care to be honest.”
However, the Red Bull Racing driver admitted that he is hoping for Barcelona to win in El Clasico this weekend.
“I just prefer if Barcelona wins,” added the in-form Dutchman who has won the last two races in Malaysia and Singapore, respectively.
Verstappen and Barcelona connection
Verstappen’s love for FC Barcelona is well documented. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
It is no secret at this point that Max Verstappen has a soft spot for Barcelona.
Although he is not self-proclaimed fan, as he supports his local team PSV Eindhoven, the Dutchman has often glazed Barcelona in the past.
“I will always be a Barcelona fan no matter what happens,” Versappen had said in the past, admitting that he enjoys watching the Blaugrana play.
It appears Verstappen enjoys the Barcelona identity brought in by Dutch legend Johan Cruyff. Max himself is a huge fan of Cruyff.
That being said, the F1 legend often tries to balance out his love for Barcelona in public, and had recently met the entire Real Madrid squad during the Madrid Grand Prix. He has also praised Real Madrid’s squad-building and management in the past.
This weekend, however, Max will be rooting for a Barcelona victory, as Hansi Flick’s men look to maintain their dominance in La Liga.