Max Verstappen is up against a 10-place grid penalty for the Belgian Grand Prix this weekend.
- Verstappen is skeptical about overcoming the penalty at Spa-Francorchamps.
- He acknowledges Red Bull hasn’t been the fastest in recent races.
- Verstappen points out several variables that could impact their performance.
- Despite challenges, Verstappen remains open-minded about the race outcome.
Max Verstappen is staring down a 10-place grid penalty due to an engine change ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps. With many uncertainties, Verstappen isn’t making any promises about his performance this weekend.
In response to questions about overcoming the penalty at Spa, Verstappen was doubtful. “I knew of course that it is coming, so that’s not a surprise to me,” he said.
When asked if Spa is the track to manage the penalty, he replied, “Well, we’ll find out on Sunday of course how good that is going to be…most likely it will be here.”
Last season, a 10-place penalty wouldn’t have been a major setback for the dominant Red Bull team, but 2024 has been different. Verstappen hasn’t won the last three Grands Prix, giving teams like McLaren and Mercedes a confidence boost.
Acknowledging his recent struggles, Verstappen said, “If you look at our last few races where we haven’t been particularly been the fastest, I wouldn’t say that with 10 places extra, we have a chance of winning. But again, a race can always be turned upside down within moments.”
Verstappen highlighted several factors that could affect Red Bull’s bid for a win, such as Spa’s unpredictable weather. “There’s quite a bit of rain expected on Friday and Saturday,” he noted.
Additionally, the new tarmac at certain parts of the track could pose another challenge. “We need to see how the tires respond to that as well. Still a lot of unknowns,” he added.
Despite his recent difficulties, Verstappen continues to lead the World Drivers’ Championship by 76 points over Lando Norris. Every driver will be eager to close the gap before the summer break.
The Belgian GP will be a test of adaptability and resilience for Verstappen and the Red Bull team.
Source: Planetf1
