Max motivated to win in Abu Dhabi: 'Of course I am'
Published on 23 November 2023 by Stefan Meens
Ahead of the season finale at Abu Dhabi, Max Verstappen reflected on a stellar 2023 campaign. After securing his eighteenth victory of the year at last week’s Las Vegas Grand Prix, the Oracle Red Bull Racing driver has achieved 53 Formula 1 race wins in his career, the same amount as Sebastian Vettel. Only Michael Schumacher (91) and Lewis Hamilton (103) have taken the chequered flag in first place more often.
“It’s a crazy number after what’s been a crazy year”, said Max from the Yas Marina Circuit paddock. “It would be nice to pass Vettel but we’re equally focussed on being competitive next year and to hold on to the momentum we have.”
If you reflect on 2023, what races stand out for you? “The comeback race in Miami was amazing, and it was an important one. To win my home race in Zandvoort was special. And of course the win in Suzuka after a difficult weekend in Singapore.”
You keep on winning. How do you stay this motivated when you’re this dominant. “To be honest, I don’t really think about it that much. I love racing. That’s the most important to me. Winning races is the best thing there is in Formula 1, so for me the motivation comes easy.”
“Every race we’ve been to this year, we’ve had a good chance of winning. I think it’s more difficult to motivate yourself when you’ve been in that position but know prior that you won’t win the race. That’s when you need to find different ways to stay motivated. At the moment, we’re on top so it’s easier than fighting in the midfield.”
With the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marking the end of the season, preparations for next year’s car are in full swing. “We know the weak points of the RB19 so we try to improve those. There are always weak points, just look at our Singapore race weekend. In general, we struggle more on street courses. We can improve in the slower corners and going over bumps and kerbstones.”
Contest GP Abu Dhabi: win a by Max Verstappen signed Verstappen.com Racing cap!
