Max from Baku: 'I'm happy for him'
Published on 12 September 2024 by Florence Cobben
Max Verstappen talked to the press on Thursday at the Baku ring, discussing the challenges of the Monza Grand Prix and the upcoming challenge of the Baku Grand Prix, as well as the announcement that Adrian Newey was leaving Red Bull to join Aston Martin.
Looking ahead to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the three-time world champion explained, “I have been back in the factory with the team this week and on the sim ahead of the double header. Monza was a tough race and it is our priority to get our form back to where it needs to be. We always want to be more competitive and the team has been working hard to improve the issues we have been seeing with the car from the past few races.”
Max elaborates: “We are now back to the flyaways with this first race returning to Baku. It is always a good challenge coming here and is an interesting track to drive, being a street circuit with long straights, so we are ready to get back racing again and see what the weekend brings.”
The week has been completely overshadowed by the news that Adrian Newey is going to work for Aston Martin in 2025. Max explains: “Adrian and I have a very good understanding. I sent him a message when the news came out. Of course I knew it was coming. I’m happy for him. It’s a new challenge. Ofcourse I would have loved for him to stay, but at one point you’ve got to do these things. Then you’re excited for people seeking new challenges. I know Lawrence is pushing flat out to make it be a success. Of course it’s understandable he wants Adrian by his side.”
Regarding the loss of Newey, Max is not going to dwell on it. Also the clear offer from Aston Martin that a seat is always ready for him at the team doesn’t faze him: “These kind of things I don’t even think about because it’s not in my control. I have other worries at the moment that I’m busy with and try to fix, at the team that I’m driving at. That’s where my focus is. That’s something in the future to think about. Not now.”
Contest GP Azerbaijan: win a by Max Verstappen signed Red Bull Racing cap!
