Max Verstappen believes he can pressure Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli at the Spanish Formula 1 GP, but ruled out an overly aggressive approach throughout the race. The Dutchman considers that the tire behavior at Madring requires more control and management throughout the event.
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Verstappen starts third, behind Norris and Antonelli, after a qualifying session in which he was in contention for pole until the final moments. Before the race, the four-time world champion positively assessed Red Bull’s weekend but acknowledged that there are still unknowns. “So far, the weekend has been very good for us. I hope we can do something similar in the race, but there are still many unknowns, especially regarding tire behavior.”
Asked about the possibility of resorting to the more aggressive style associated with the nickname “Mad Max,” Verstappen replied that he intends to adapt his stance to what the race demands. “Whatever is necessary. If I need to be careful or aggressive, it depends on what happens out there.”
Read more F1: Tire strategy becomes a doubt for teams in Madrid
After qualifying, however, he had been even more specific about the strategy. “Honestly, with the state of the track and how the tires are behaving, you don’t want ‘Mad Max,’ you need ‘Gentle Max,’” he joked. “Max from lap 1, and then Gentle Max. It’s a new version, and then we’ll see what happens.”
Verstappen also commented on the design of Madring and advocated for greater driver involvement in the creation of new circuits. He cited Austin as an example of a track that allows better preparation for overtaking and stated that, although he considers the Madrid circuit well finished and organized, he sees points that could receive adjustments.
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