Christian Horner expects Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton to be neck-and-neck at the start of the United States Grand Prix. According to the Red Bull Racing team boss, a good, clean start will be crucial.
The start is of great importance according to Horner, as overtaking is not easy at the Circuit of the Americas. "I think that it's tough to follow here, so you definitely want to lead into Turn 1," Horner told Sky Sports.
Horner hopes for good start Verstappen
Turn 11 is the main overtaking point on the circuit, so Horner hopes Verstappen will have pulled a gap on Hamilton before then. "I expect an exciting start right up to the first corner. I think it's going to be a grandstand start up there at Turn 1. At least we've got two guys starting at the front of the field," continued the Briton. "I think it's pretty tough to follow in these cars, so if we can get a clean sector one, you hope by the time you get to Turn 11 you've got that little bit of a gap."
In addition, the team boss hopes Pérez will be able to overtake Hamilton at the start, providing Verstappen with the necessary back up. "That's going to be going to be crucial. If Max can see the yellow helmet of Sergio in his mirrors, I think he'd be a lot happier with that," Horner said.