Column: Jos Verstappen - Remaining realistic

Published on 21 August 2015 by Niels Hendrix

Jos Verstappen is still the Netherlands most successful Formula 1 driver. This season he shares his opinions regarding the sport via a column in Dutch daily newspaper De Telegraaf. Below the latest edition.

“For many Formula 1 fans, the Belgian Grand Prix is the favourite race of year. Normally I would agree. However this season, things are a bit different.

Spa is and remains a beautiful circuit, challenging to drive. Additionally, it's Max' home race as it's only 45 minutes from our home in Maaseik by car. And because of the heightened enthusiasm after Max' fourth place in Hungary last month, there will be more Dutch fans then ever. Thousands.

That's why Max is even more motivated to claim a great result. However, Spa is a typical 'power circuit'; it's all about engine power. That's exactly what the Toro Rossos of Max and Carlos Sainz lack. With that knowledge, I'm looking ahead to Sunday's race with mixed feelings as we need to remain realistic. Fortunately, Spa is track with a high chance of rain, which might help us.

Personally I had several memorable moments at Spa. One the one hand a podium finish in 1994 after Michael Schumacher was disqualified but also a severe crash in 1996. Regardless of the weather, Spa is never boring. Eau Rouge plays a big part in that. It's one of, if not the, best corners in Formula 1. The corner is very challenging, even more so this year with an extra grid of kerb stones at the top.

Basically every driver will take Eau Rouge flat, but you have to have a good line at the exit, which is trickier with the added kerbs. Because of those kerbs, you can't judge the height difference sitting in the car. Also, television does not capture the steep incline. But I can assure you, having just done a track walk with Max, you can feel walking up Eau Rouge in your legs.

Looking ahead to Sunday, it's difficult to predict. It's the first race after the summer break so many teams will bring updates along. Apparently McLaren will take to the track with a vastly improved Honda engine, Sauber will be able to use an updated Ferrari engine, whereas the Toro Rosso boys have to use the same Renault engine. Unfortunately, their first power-unit upgrade is scheduled for the Russian GP in Sotsji in October.

That's why I think Max could have a difficult second half of the season, mainly considering the track lay-outs of several upcoming Grands Prix. Nevertheless, it's something Max has to learn to deal and cope with. Sometimes you can hear the frustration when he reacts a bit emotional, but I think it shows his drive and will to always preform well, no matter when or where.”

Jos Verstappen

Source: De Telegraaf/Telesport

Click here to participate in a contest, for the Begian GP, and win Verstappen-goodies!