Max from Jeddah: 'I am happy at Red Bull'

Published on 06 March 2024 by Misha van der Kroon

After winning dominantly in Bahrain and a few relaxed days in Dubai, Max Verstappen has arrived in Jeddah for the Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia. The Wednesday is dedicated to media sessions, where the three-time World Champion is frequently asked about the commotion surrounding Red Bull Racing. 

“Ideally, as a team, you would have liked to not have these kinds of moments, but we are all focussed on our job and that is to perform on the track,” Max replies. “That’s what I will focus on this weekend, that’s what is important, also for the team. Hopefully we can have a quiet weekend here, and talk about the performance and the results we have on track, because we have a great car and are looking forward to a great year.”

He also ignores any speculation about his future: “the intention of signing a long-term contract with Red Bull is to stay with them all that time. I know what they have done for me in my career, I really enjoy it and I’m also really happy with the team. And with our performances now there is no reason to leave. I have a contract until the end of 2028.”

Last year, Max finished second at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, after starting the race from P15 due to technical issues during qualifying. After a great recovery race, and with Sergio Perez winning the race, it was a great result for Oracle Red Bull Racing. 

“Hopefully we don’t have any problems in qualifying this year, that would help me a lot,” Max says with a smile, before continuing in a more serious tone. “This circuit is very different from Bahrain. There are a lot of fast corners, and lower tyre degradation… all these things probably make it a bit more straightforward for everyone. But our car is good in high-speed corners and hopefully we can show that here again.” 

Contest GP Jeddah: win a by Max Verstappen signed Verstappen.com Racing cap!