Sep 21, 2023 at 8:55 AM Update: 35 minutes ago
Max Verstappen has put the bad weekend for Red Bull in Singapore behind him and is looking forward to the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka. He expects to be able to win there next weekend, just like at all other circuits that Formula 1 will visit in 2023.
Within Red Bull there are still some question marks surrounding the mediocre performance on the street circuit a week ago. “But unfortunately we can only see whether we have solved it next year when we return there,” Verstappen said in Suzuka on Thursday. “The focus is now of course also on the race here next weekend.”
Verstappen is not bothered that his streak of ten victories in a row was broken. “Shit happens, we didn’t win a race,” the Dutchman responded matter-of-factly. “We were defeated.”
Yet Verstappen disagreed with the common opinion that another winner was good for Formula 1. “It is also nice if we do better than the rest. If you cannot appreciate that, you are not a real Formula 1 fan. “
Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez can win the constructors’ championship for Red Bull next weekend in Japan. Photo: Getty Images
Competition has few illusions
The competition therefore has few illusions about the weekend in Japan or all other races that will follow this year. Red Bull normally finds its form again. “I think we can win all the races until the end of the year,” Verstappen was certain.
Yet there is still a street circuit on the calendar, in Las Vegas. The World Cup leader is not worried about that. “We were also good on other street circuits, but not very dominant. We just know that it is not our strong point. But most circuits are not like Singapore.”
According to Verstappen, Las Vegas is so unknown that it is impossible to say whether it is a good or a bad circuit for Red Bull. “We don’t know how much grip there is. But on all other tracks it should be good anyway.”
Remaining Grands Prix in 2023
JapanQatarVerenigde Staten MexicoSão PauloLas VegasAbu Dhabi
Verstappen expects a strong McLaren
Red Bull brought another update to Singapore, but has now completely focused on the 2024 car. Most teams do that, but more development is taking place among the competition.
“Other teams have had a difficult start and they want to continue developing until the end to learn things. We have also done that in the past. So then they come closer,” thinks Verstappen. But not close enough to really threaten Red Bull, is his expectation.
Nevertheless, Verstappen will also keep an eye on McLaren next weekend in Suzuka, which has now equipped both cars with the update that helped Lando Norris finish second in Singapore.
“You see them making big steps. I really expect them to be strong here. It is impressive to see where they started with this car and where they are now. They can be fast, especially over one lap. Whether it is in the race as well you never know.”
Japan GP timetable (Dutch times)
Friday: 4:30-5:30 am: First free practice Friday: 8:00 am-9:00 am: Second free practice Saturday: 4:30 am-5:30 am: Third free practice Saturday: 8:00 am-9:00 am: Qualifying Sunday: 7:00 am: Race
‘Beautiful for Honda if we become constructors’ champions here’
Verstappen can already drink champagne next weekend. If Red Bull is one point ahead of Mercedes, it will leave Japan as constructors’ champion. “If we succeed, it is something we can be very proud of. Of everything that has been achieved during the season, but also of the preparation,” the Limburger looked back a bit. “And of course proud that the car is so good.”
Verstappen himself does not care when he can win the drivers’ title for the first time. That is not possible in Japan anyway, but he would like a constructors’ title in Japan for engine builder Honda.
“It would mean something more if we took the title here. Honda is very closely involved in the project.”
2023-09-21 06:55:01
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