Max reflects on Friday practice: 'I was able to find a decent rhythm quickly'
Published on 25 June 2021 by Stefan Meens
Following Friday practice at the Styrian Grand Prix, Ziggo Sport’s Olav Mol caught up with Max Verstappen to discuss the opening day at the Red Bull Ring.
Red Bull Racing are currently leading both standings. Do you need a strong team mate to do well yourself? “No, it’s more for the Constructors Championship that you need two cars. It also means Mercedes have less strategy options. Of course, it helps to have a strong team mate, but I always focus on my own pure speed to prepare.”
Is turn four camber or off-camber? “A little bit off-camber I think. The car goes from off-camber back to the inside. There’s always a bit of understeer in that corner. In this car it’s alright; in other categories it was more difficult to get through it.”
It looked like you were having fun today. “Yes, we started pretty well. The car felt good, although it felt better in first practice. We just tried a few things. I can’t complain too much, I was able to find a decent rhythm quickly.”
Your long runs looked good too. “Yes, but I wasn’t as happy with the balance in FP2. But generally speaking, the long runs were still good.”
It looked like it didn’t matter who was setting a quick time; you appeared to be able to retaliate. “In general yes, it’s going well. But they are close, especially considering Lewis’ lap time was deleted. That shows Mercedes really have the speed.”
Are you using a low downforce rear wing again? “Compared to Mercedes, yes.”
So things have to be spot on to be on top in qualifying? “Of course, and it’s a short lap so mistakes will cost you. I expect the whole grid to be close.”
