Valuable FR 2.0 track time for Max in Spain

Published on 27 November 2013 by Niels Hendrix

After a successful season in karts, despite not the best of endings in Bahrain, Max Verstappen once again tested a Formula Renault 2.0. To prepare for the FR 2.0 Eurocup in 2014, it is vital that the fast youngster gets as much track time as possible to hit the ground running when the series start.

The location for the two day test is the Ciudad del Motor de Aragón, better known as Motorland Aragon in Alcaniz. The 5.345m long track, seen as a challenging circuit, is designed by Hermann Tilke, who designed several of the modern Formula 1 venues. The team that invited Max along, is once again Tech 1 Racing. In fact, this test session is Max' third outing for the French outfit. Despite the several collaborations between Tech 1 and Verstappen, a decision has not been made regarding in what team Max will feature during the Eurocup.

Under sunny yet chilly conditions, Max drives out of the pits to get familiar with the track, as it is the first time Verstappen junior goes round the Aragon circuit. "During the first two morning runs, I had to get used to the circuit as there are many elevation changes." Max continues: "There are several fast but blind corners, but I got used to them pretty quickly."

Max proved he adapts quickly to new conditions as he was constantly among the top times. "Pretty much all of today we were among the fastest and on a new set of tyres I managed a 1:55.4 although there were a few others that managed a 1:55.4 as well." To put into context, during the official race weekend earlier this year, the fastest lap in the dry was a 1:56.173. The track record, dating to April 2011 is 1:55.300. The first day of testing shows that Max is a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.

Max will continue his two day test with Tech 1 on Thursday morning. As usual we will report on the performance of this lightning fast talent at the end of the day.

Johan Peeters / Stefan Meens