F1 News
Tanabe reveals his surprise at being called up to the podium in Austria
Honda's F1 technical director, Toyoharu Tanabe has revealed his shock surrounding his call up to the podium celebrations at the Austrian Grand Prix following Max Verstappen's stunning win at the Red Bull Ring.
Verstappen dropped from second to seventh off the line at the race in Spielberg but recovered magnificently to overtake Sebastian Vettel, Valtteri Bottas and on lap 69 complete the win with a dramatic move on Charles Leclerc. Not only was this the Dutchman's first win since Mexico in 2018, but it was also the first win by a Honda-powered car since 2006.
Tanabe was selected to go and collect the Constructors' trophy and he spoke about his surprise on the F1 website, saying: "I was surprised when I was told to go [to the podium].
“I had no idea what I should do and that’s why I got to the podium later than other people. Normally you need to stay before the National Anthem – I thought I should be there for that but I was a bit late.
"But I joined after that. This was my first time – I was worried about what to do and no one told me!”
Tanabe went on to reveal the Honda engine was right on the edge adding: "We were on the edge in terms of cooling.
“I did not [expect to be competitive] like this, be so strong."
