What Makes Lionel Messi the GOAT? Argentina and Inter Miami Icon Dubbed 'Unstoppable' by Formula 1 Star Max Verstappen

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has joined the long list of sports icons who are in awe of Lionel Messi's genius on the field. The Red Bull driver believes the Argentina and Inter Miami maestro has a unique ability to read the game, making tactical preparation almost useless.

Verstappen has never been shy about showing his admiration for top-class performances, and the Dutch driver believes Messi plays on a level that transcends conventional defensive logic. Highlighting the legendary Inter Miami star's career, the 28-year-old Formula 1 driver noted that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner doesn't rely on physical attributes typically required for modern players to make an impact.

"He knows how to read the game," Verstappen said. "You see many players, they have to run, they have to get into the box to score. He can score from anywhere, anytime, and you think you can stop him, but you can't. You can't stop him. He will score when he gets the chance. You just can't stop him."

To illustrate his point, Verstappen recalled a magical moment from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. During a heated quarterfinal match between Argentina and the Netherlands, Messi produced a sensational blind pass to set up Nahuel Molina's opening goal, leaving the entire Dutch defense bewildered. "The pass he gave against the Netherlands in the last World Cup, you couldn't stop it," Verstappen said, referencing his country's defeat to Messi-led Argentina.

In the long-standing debate between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Verstappen previously refused to pick a favorite, instead highlighting the unique qualities that make both players great. Although the four-time F1 champion acknowledged Messi's superior natural ability, he also equally respected the dedication and physicality of the Portuguese legend.

"They're very different, so I couldn't choose," Verstappen said earlier when asked to compare the two icons. "I feel it's impossible to choose because I think Messi has more talent than Cristiano, but Cristiano has worked very hard and stayed in incredible physical condition."

As Messi continues to shine at both club and national levels, questions about his future and potential 1,000-goal milestone have come to the forefront. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni believes the magical number is achievable if his captain remains motivated. In a recent interview, he stated: "He can reach 1,000 goals, we have to see how much longer he will play. The thing is, he has to want to keep playing. I hope he does, because he's happy on the pitch and we all want to see him."

Scaloni is also optimistic about Messi leading Argentina in the 2026 World Cup, adding: "It would be an honor if Leo decides to play in the World Cup. We all want him to enjoy it and we'll help him feel comfortable. He wants the same thing as us, now he's more relaxed because he's already won a World Cup. His desire to be there and share the moment is there, we'll see what he decides and we'll support him."