Max at FIA press conference: “Very happy with chance Red Bull gave me”

Published on 12 May 2016 by Stefan Meens

The Thursday FIA drivers’ press conference, looked a lot like a Red Bull team meeting with Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen, local hero Carlos Sainz and his Scuderia Toro Rosso team mate Daniil Kvyat all on the front row.

With Max’s recent switch from Toro Rosso to Red Bull Racing, the Dutchman was asked if the promotion posed a risk. “To be honest, I’m very happy with the opportunity that Red Bull gave me. Racing for a top team was always what I wanted. I think my debut in Formula 1 last year was probably a bigger risk but that went well.”

“Now it’s really all about getting used to the car, which isn’t easy in the middle of a season. However the preparations at the Red Bull factory have given me a lot of confidence. Of course I have to learn a lot of procedures but that we’ll work out race by race. I’m definitely going to enjoy it.”

A new team, means a new team mate. Max finds Daniel Ricciardo in the neighbouring garage. “He’s a great guy and very fast on track. He has a lot of experience within the team and I’ll try to learn a lot from him.”

With Max signed up at Red Bull, it appears other teams have missed out on the talented Dutchman. “I’ve always been very happy at Red Bull so I don’t see a reason to change anything. I’m happy at Red Bull and I’m happy that they’re happy with me so let’s continue like that.”

With his career progressing so fast, will the 18-year-old have enough time to develop? “Honestly, I’m very well supported by Red Bull and feel comfortable. A person who feels confident and comfortable will always perfrom better. That’s how I feel now and I hope to keep it that way. In the end it’s not only up to raw speed but also experience. That’s something I’ll gain race by race. For now I’m going to enjoy this season and then we’ll see what happens.”

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