Great words from racing legend Andretti: "Greatness comes from deep within"

Racing legend Mario Andretti previously stated that he believed Max Verstappen deserved to be world champion. That wish has come true, and the 1978 world champion has some nice words for the new 2021 world champion.

"Greatness doesn't come as a right, it comes from something deep inside," Andretti said in a video for Formula1.com. "It comes from an unwavering desire and total commitment, a dream."

The American racing legend says the Dutch champion has come under intense scrutiny, criticism and pressure but has never succumbed to it, giving him the ultimate prize.

Dutch fans also get an honorable mention from the 81-year-old Andretti. "The Orange Army sang your name in chorus, the legions of the lion," he says of the relentless support Verstappen enjoys from his fans.

"You have dreamed of your moment and you have lived it every day. And now, you get to taste it," the 1978 Formula One world champion concluded.