Frustrated Verstappen lists long series of problems with Red Bull after Austin race
Shanna is a Formula 1 journalist at GPblog, specializing in both F1 and endurance and GT racing. With a Master’s degree in Journalism and experience at international circuits, she provides in-depth, reliable coverage and insights based on her presence at Grands Prix and racing events worldwide.
Max Verstappen has few positive things to say about his race in Austin. The Dutchman finished third, but after the finish he voiced strong criticism of the pace, the tyre choice and the performance of his Red Bull. Verstappen said the late virtual safety car helped him hold on to his podium place.
Over team radio, Verstappen vented his frustration to race engineer Tom Hart, complaining about a lack of pace, the wrong tyre choice and a poorly executed pit stop. The Dutchman described the race as a disaster, admitting that the virtual safety car was the only thing that had worked in his favour.
In his post-race interview, Verstappen explained that Red Bull needs to investigate why its approach in Austin did not work out as it had in the previous races: “I think our overall pace was not good enough, and then probably also the tyres that we had available were probably not the right ones.
Verstappen questions Red Bull's tyre choice
Red Bull had saved two new sets of soft tyres for Verstappen and opted for an early first pit stop. That supply offered opportunities beforehand, but proved no guarantee of success during the race. Verstappen ultimately lost the battle for second place to Charles Leclerc. "That’s something that we have to understand, because the last few races it was always working well for us. For whatever reason it didn’t work out here," Verstappen said.
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In the closing stages, the Dutchman also had to keep an eye on Lewis Hamilton. Valtteri Bottas's retirement triggered a VSC, leaving the Ferrari driver with less time to close the gap. "We still managed to get on the podium," he said, finding at least one small bright spot in an otherwise frustrating afternoon. "Maybe a little bit lucky with the VSC at the end, but I’ll take it."
Move on Norris was necessary
One of Verstappen's most notable moves was his overtake on Lando Norris. With Leclerc right behind him, he couldn't afford to spend long stuck behind the McLaren. When Brundle complimented him on the move, Verstappen made it clear he had little choice: “I had to. It was either get overtaken or you have to go for the overtake, so that’s what I did.”
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