Max Verstappen’s Performance Coach on the Three Traits That Win Titles

Elite performance coach Bradley Scanes joins the podcast to share insights from working at the highest levels of elite sport, most notably as Max Verstappen’s performance coach through four Formula One World Championship titles. With a background spanning gymnastics, basketball, football, boxing and UFC, Bradley explains how performance principles can be applied across sports, even as specialist as F1, which he entered without having ever watched a race.

He reveals the three traits that separate world champions from the rest: the ability to perform in chaos, stay present in the moment, and demonstrate adaptability under pressure. Using examples from Max Verstappen, Max Whitlock and Lucy Charles-Barclay, Bradley explains how champions can block out noise, park mistakes, and execute regardless of conditions.

He also discusses how adversity in early life often shapes elite performers, why meticulous preparation and automatic skill allow for higher-level decision-making under stress, and how managing off-track “load” like media, sponsors, travel and jet lag, is as critical as physical training.

Finally, Bradley offers a fascinating window into the inner workings of dominant teams like Red Bull, where clear processes, defined roles, camaraderie and relentless standards create the environment for history-making success.

The ainslie + ainslie Performance People podcast talks to high-performers in the world of sport and beyond, to bring defining moments, hard-earned insights and expert advice to everyday performance. New episodes every Tuesday.

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