Max Verstappen gets ready for the commencement of the Miami Grand Prix in 2024.
Imola GP winner Max Verstappen felt the “awkward angle” of the P1 and P3 grid slots did him no favours at the start of the race.
Verstappen maintained his 100 per cent pole position record at Imola, but with the McLarens getting within a tenth of his pole effort, the seeds were sown for a potential thrilling battle for Grand Prix victory to come.
Max Verstappen not happy with Imola grid slot
Similar to his victory in Miami, where Norris secured his first F1 race win, the McLaren driver displayed his competitive spirit once again against Verstappen. However, this time the Championship leader managed to maintain his position and claimed victory by a narrow margin of seven-tenths over Norris.
Verstappen voiced his discontent with the P1 and P3 grid positions, considering them to be positioned at an inconvenient angle for the race start, as he, along with Charles Leclerc, the P3 finisher, made their way to the cool-down room.
He said that he wasn’t certain if the left side is the most suitable option for P1 and P3.
“At the beginning, the angle is consistently uncomfortable.”
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However, despite Verstappen successfully defending against Norris at the beginning and extending his lead on medium tyres, the tide turned in Norris’ favor during the second stint when both drivers switched to hard tyres. Norris came close to launching an overtaking maneuver for the victory but fell just short.
Verstappen acknowledged that he was lacking “any remaining grip” towards the end, but the little he had proved sufficient to clinch the victory.
Verstappen stated that throughout the entire race, he had to give his maximum effort in order to create an initial gap.
“I believe we had a solid performance on the medium tyres. However, dealing with the hard tyres was more challenging, especially towards the final 10 to 15 laps, as I experienced a significant loss of grip. I found myself sliding excessively.”
I noticed Lando approaching rapidly, so the final 10 laps became a relentless pursuit. However, it becomes exceedingly challenging when the tires no longer provide optimum performance, yet you must continue pushing at maximum speed.
“I had to be cautious as I couldn’t afford to make too many mistakes. Fortunately, we managed to avoid any major errors and I am extremely thrilled to have emerged victorious today.”
When asked about the transformation of their race weekend, Verstappen explained that they made significant changes to the car after struggling in practice.
Naturally, we were lacking substantial information prior to the race. This could explain why we faced some challenges on the hard tires. However, considering how our weekend began and where we stand now, securing pole position and a victory, we have every reason to be extremely satisfied. Therefore, I am content with that outcome.
Verstappen secured his third consecutive victory at Imola with this latest triumph.
Read next: So close! Lando Norris reveals where Imola GP was won and lost after agonising defeat
