Max Verstappen - Photo: Race Pictures

Verstappen sets clear target for Baku after 'incredible race' in Monza

19:29, 17 Sep

Updated: 19:51, 17 Sep

byTobia Elia

Having secured a dominant victory at the Monza GP, Max Verstappen is now ready to take on the final European leg of the season in Baku.

Max Verstappen in Monza paddock - Photo: Race Pictures

“Hopefully we can take this positive form into this week and make sure we perform well”

- Max Verstappen

Speaking on the eve of the Azerbaijan weekend, the four-time world champion stated: "Monza was an incredible race for us and we made a good step forward with where we want to be with the setup of the car.

"The win has been a huge boost for everyone and I have been back at the factory this week to celebrate with the Team, which has been great, and have been on the sim to prepare for the next race."

Verstappen hopes to secure another strong result on a track that demands as much straight-line speed as Monza, and where as in the Italian track last season, he struggled significantly, as he failed to find the right configuration for his RB20, where teammate Perez did succeed, tipping him to fight for a podium until an untimely crash with Carlos Sainz put him out of the race, suggesting Red Bull's potential in the 2024 edition of the race.

"We are now back to the flyaways in Baku and it is always a bit more of a challenge on the street circuit," he added.

"The combination of low-speed corners and the long main straight means you have to find a compromise in the setup, and it is about getting the right rear wing level as well. Hopefully we can take this positive form into this week and make sure we perform well in Qualifying too."

Marko confirms: Verstappen to participate in Nurburgring 24h in 2026

Last weekend, the Dutch driver visited the historic Nordschleife circuit with the goal of obtaining the A permit, which qualifies him to race in the GT3 class and, most notably, the legendary 24 Hours of Nürburgring—a goal he has long pursued.

In a recent interview with Sport.de, Helmut Marko confirmed that Verstappen will be able to participate next year, as the event does not conflict with the Formula 1 calendar.

See our latest F1 paddock update below!