Verstappen “trying to stick to the advice given” about coronavirus concerns

Max Verstappen has said that he is “trying to stick to the advice given” from Red Bull Racing, the FIA and Formula 1 concerning the coronavirus outbreak ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.

Coronavirus has impacted worldwide, especially sporting events such as football leagues in Europe being postponed or played behind closed doors, while the NBA in America has been suspended.
 
In F1 the Chinese Grand Prix has already been postponed and the race in Bahrain will take place without any spectators.
 
There were growing concerns about whether the race in Melbourne would occur and Verstappen is taking on board any advice possible to avoid Covid-19.
 
“It’s not nice what is happening," said Max on Verstappen.nl. “I’m trying to follow the guidelines. I’m not a doctor so I’m trying to stick to the advice given. That is the best we can do.
 
“Info comes from Red Bull, the FIA and Formula 1. So that’s what we’re following. It’s about keeping your distance and washing your hands, the advice that’s given everywhere else.
 
“The interaction with the fans is obviously a lot less but I hope they understand. In the end, it’s better for them as well.
 
“I hope we can race all the Grands Prix, but it depends on the decisions from governments. We’ll have to wait and see.”
 
Some measures taken is a change to how media sessions work with journalists further away, the cancellation of autograph sessions as well as broadcasters being unable to do open television interviews.
 
The Dutchman reiterated his and the teams desire to challenge Mercedes for the World Championship throughout the year but will have to see what Australia shows.
 
“There is a good vibe in the team, like last year,” he added.
 
“However, this time our targets are higher. We want to win and aim for the championship.
 
“I think as a team we can achieve that. But we have to wait and see how competitive we are at the start of the season; that’s crucial.”