Max is looking forward to Suzuka Friday practice

Published on 29 September 2014 by Niels Hendrix

With the confirmation of his superlicence Max can take part in the first free practice of the Japanese Grand Prix. At the wheel of the Scuderia Toro Rosso STR9 he will drive his first miles in an up-to-date Formula 1 car.

“I am very much looking forward to taking part in a free practice session at a Grand Prix for the
first time. It is good preparation for next year, even if it’s not something I could have imagined a
few months ago. To already be participating in a practice session is of course a dream come true”, says Max.

“I have actually been to Suzuka before, to take part in a go-kart race on the track that is located next
to the main circuit’s back straight. My dad has raced at Suzuka many times and he told me it’s not an
easy track to start on. For me it will be a very valuable experience, spending some time in the car and
also getting used to working with everyone in the team, to prepare myself for next year. I am not going there to break any records, I just want to gain experience.”

“I have spent one day driving this track on the simulator, which helps a bit, but it’s no substitute for driving it for real. My first impression is that it’s not an easy track and for example it looks hard to get the combination right in the first Esses. I have one and a half hours to drive there and I’m looking forward to doing a good job, for myself and for the team.”