Verstappen wants revenge in Turkey: 'Last year was not our best weekend'

It will be a special weekend for Max Verstappen in Turkey. Not only can he take revenge for last year's race and regain the lead in the world championship from Lewis Hamilton, Red Bull Racing will pay tribute to the departing Honda with a special livery and race suit.

Missing Japanese Grand Prix

Actually this weekend the Japanese Grand Prix was supposed to take place. So Honda has to miss the home race in its final season. "I really enjoy the Japanese GP, so it's a shame we will miss it," Verstappen told the team's preview. "I will miss the fans the most, it's always really nice to see the fans in Japan because they are so passionate about Formula One. I also hope they will like the new livery we have on the car this weekend."

Special livery in Turkey

That Red Bull Racing will be driving with a special livery this weekend is something the Dutchman is very much looking forward to. "It always feels special to race for Honda, even without the special livery. It's a shame for us as a team and for Honda to have to miss the Japan GP, but it's cool that instead, we can do something in Turkey to celebrate. I'm looking forward to seeing it and it's really special to have the car look different for a race."

With seven races to go the partnership with Honda is almost over after three years. Verstappen can look back on a great period. "My best memories of racing with Honda are of course the wins, especially my first win with them, that was very emotional. Working with Honda has been so enjoyable and they are super motivated every race and they are super passionate about always delivering the best they can."

Revanche in Turkey

Last year's race in Istanbul went very unhappily for Verstappen. The Dutchman started on the first row of the grid but had a poor start. During his advance back to the front, he spun behind Sergio Perez and eventually finished only sixth. "Last year's Turkish GP was obviously not the best weekend for us as a team, but I think the conditions will be very different this year."

The main problem last year was the new, slippery tarmac combined with the rain. According to the Grand Prix organisers, this has been worked on for this year. "Hopefully the tarmac will be a bit more slippery. I think it will be a new weekend for everyone. There's a lot to learn, so I'm curious how competitive we'll be there."