Max from Shanghai: 'Focusing on ourselves'
Published on 20 March 2025 by Misha van der Kroon
After a full day of promotional activities for Oracle Red Bull Racing on Wednesday, Max Verstappen was back in the Formula 1 paddock at the Shanghai International Circuit on Thursday, where he spoke to the international media.
Looking back on the wet race in Melbourne, Max summarizes the performance gaps between the teams: “The difference between us, Mercedes, and Ferrari was small. That will likely vary from circuit to circuit. The clear picture is that McLaren is quite far ahead. In the first stint, I didn’t really have a chance to fight them. They’re super strong, and I have a lot of respect for what they’ve done, both last year and now. They’re very fast, very all-round, strong everywhere. That’s just a fact.”
Reflecting on his own car, the RB21, Max confirms progress has been made: “The car feels slightly different from last year, in a positive way. Now it’s about improving performance and finding some lap time. The balance was not too bad in Melbourne. We know our car isn’t the best over bumps and curbs, but on the other hand, we’re quite strong in high-speed corners. It depends so much on how you set up the car and the choices you make. But in general, we need to be better as a whole, and that’s what we’re working on.”
In recent discussions within F1 and the FIA, there has been talk of a return to V10 engines with sustainable fuel. What does Max think? “From a purely emotional standpoint, a V10 engine is definitely much better than the power units we have now. I remember the noise of those engines from my childhood, it was so much better, even if the cars were maybe slower. The feeling you got from hearing a V10 is something that you can't describe, compared to what we have now.”
China is the first of six Grands Prix this season featuring a sprint race. Does Max think a sprint race gives him a better shot at victory compared to a regular race? “I don’t think so. If you’re quick, you will be quick in the sprint and in the main race. The sprint is just a bit longer than a normal first stint. Look at what we did last year, we were flying int he in the sprint and also flying in the race.”
The track has been resurfaced with new asphalt. What does Max expect? “We’ll have to see how much grip there is. I haven’t heard much about it. I think it won’t be super grippy actually. And with a sprint weekend, it’s not ideal, as there’s only one free practice session to adapt. But it’s the same for everyone. McLaren will likely be the fastest here as well. But it is what it is. We have to focus on ourselves and do the best we can.”
Contest GP China: win a by Max Verstappen signed Red Bull Racing 2025 cap!
