Final FR2.0 test of the year for Max in Jerez

Published on 15 December 2013 by Niels Hendrix

With his first season in motorsport fast approaching, Max Verstappen travelled to the south of Spain for a final Formula Renault 2.0 test in 2013. The 4.428m Circuito de Jerez near Jerez de la Frontera formed the backdorp for Max' two day session with Josef Kaufmann Racing. Despite the track being new for both the rapid Dutchman and the German outfit, both looked back on a good first test day.

Max' last couple of FR2.0 tests, were driven for Tech 1 Racing. However, he is no stranger to Kaufmann Racing. Several weeks ago, the KZ karting world champion, absolved a successful test session with the team, as they topped the time tables at an extremely wet Spa-Francochamps.

In contrast to Spa, day one at Jerez saw the track basking in sunshine. However, Max was not alone to take advantage of the excellent circuit conditions. A total of 41 cars took to the track throughout the day. As the circuit was new to both team and driver, the main goal on Saturday was finding the right set up for the car. Judging by his lap times, Max and the team did find a good set up as they clocked some very fast laps, finishing the day among the fastest.

"The first day went better than expected as the track was new to myself and the team, but we still managed to be among the top runners", explains Max as he elaborates on the remainder of the test on Sunday: "The track has a lot of grip but has a rough surface, which means the tyres wear quickly. Therefore the track will be at its quickest between roughly 9.00am and 10.30am so the plan is to work on a qualifying set up in the morning before testing several race set ups."

As Max will take to the track a final time in 2013, rounding up his test with Josef Kaufmann Racing, we will report about his final outing on Sunday evening.

Johan Peeters / Stefan Meens