Max Verstappen’s Touching Reunion with His 80-Year-Old High School Janitor

At 03:36 AM EDT on Friday, June 27, 2025, the world awoke to a heartwarming story from Hasselt, Belgium, where Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen reunited with his former high school janitor, Hendrik Van der Berg, aged 80. The unexpected encounter at Sint-Jozefscollege has melted hearts globally, showcasing a rare glimpse of the racing star’s softer side.

The reunion unfolded late Thursday night when Verstappen, back in his hometown to promote a local charity, made an impromptu visit to his old school. Walking the familiar corridors, he was struck by the sight of Van der Berg, still in his blue uniform, diligently sweeping the floors. Overcome with emotion, Verstappen approached the elderly janitor, leading to a spontaneous hug and shared laughter that has since gone viral on social media. The video, capturing their warm exchange, shows Verstappen reminiscing about his school days while Van der Berg beamed with pride.

Van der Berg, a beloved figure at the school for over 40 years, was visibly moved. “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw Max! He was such a lively student, always talking about racing. To see him now, a world champion, hugging me—it’s a dream,” he said, his voice trembling with joy. Verstappen, equally touched, praised Van der Berg’s unwavering support. “He was always there, keeping the place clean and giving us a smile. It’s amazing he’s still working at 80,” the driver noted, his admiration clear.

The moment wasn’t planned but stemmed from Verstappen’s nostalgia. Accompanied by a small team, he wandered the school, revisiting memories before spotting his former janitor. The interaction escalated as Verstappen invited Van der Berg for a chat, resulting in the embrace that has dominated headlines. Fans have flooded X with praise, with one posting, “Max hugging his 80-year-old janitor is pure gold!” Another added, “This shows the real Max—humble and kind.”

School principal Elise De Vries highlighted the event’s impact. “Max’s visit brought immense joy to our community. Hendrik is a legend here, and this recognition is well-deserved,” she said, announcing plans for a special appreciation day for Van der Berg. Inspired by the outpouring of support, Verstappen pledged to fund a retirement plan for the janitor. “He’s given so much; I want to ensure he’s cared for,” he declared.

Van der Berg’s dedication is remarkable. Working part-time, he credits the job with keeping him active and connected. “I love seeing the students every day—it keeps me young,” he explained. His story has resonated widely, with the reunion video amassing millions of views by early Friday morning. The timing, aligning with the upcoming Belgian Grand Prix, adds a poignant layer to Verstappen’s journey from student to global icon.

The reaction online has been overwhelming. “Max proving he’s a champion off the track too!” one fan wrote on X. Another commented, “Hendrik’s spirit at 80 is inspiring—Max’s gesture makes it even better.” The moment has sparked discussions about the unsung heroes like Van der Berg, whose quiet dedication shaped countless lives, including a future F1 legend.

As dawn broke on June 27, 2025, this story stood out amidst the usual racing headlines. Verstappen, preparing for the Belgian Grand Prix, has shown that his success is rooted in the people who supported him early on. For Van der Berg, the reunion is a crowning achievement, celebrated on a global stage. This touching encounter reminds us that behind every champion is a community—and sometimes, a janitor with a big heart.