Max Verstappen has been issued a 10-place grid penalty for the Belgian Grand Prix.
With an engine replacement and a 10-place grid penalty looming on the horizon, Max Verstappen has reacted to his opportunities for success during this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix.
Max Verstappen’s RB20 is in need of an engine change, and it appears as if Spa-Francorchamps will be the venue where that change will take place. With “lots of unknowns” heading into the weekend, though, Verstappen won’t make any guarantees of success.
Max Verstappen: ‘Most likely it will be here’
Additional reporting by Thomas Maher
Max Verstappen, during a media interaction before the Belgian Grand Prix, was questioned about the imminent 10-place grid penalty he is expected to receive due to an essential engine replacement.
He stated, “I was already aware that it is forthcoming, so it does not catch me off guard.”
Verstappen appeared doubtful when questioned about his ability to overcome the penalty at Spa-Francorchamps.
“He said that we will discover on Sunday how good it is going to be, of course.”
“Admittedly, certain tracks outshine others in terms of quality. Naturally, on a street circuit, it would be unwise to incur an engine penalty. Therefore, it is highly probable that the penalty will occur here.”
In the past, a 10-place grid penalty wouldn’t have affected the highly dominant Red Bull Racing team much. However, the current year, 2024, presents a contrasting scenario. Verstappen’s failure to win the last three Grands Prix has opened up opportunities for McLaren and Mercedes to strengthen their confidence in winning races.
Verstappen is aware of this fact: anything can happen during a Grand Prix.
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“If you look at our last few races where we haven’t been particularly been the fastest, I wouldn’t say that with 10 places extra, we have a chance of winning,” the Dutch champion admitted.
However, it is important to note that a race can easily be completely changed in a matter of moments.
“We need to maintain an open mind and strive to make the most out of the situation. That’s our intended approach.”
Verstappen highlighted various factors that could either assist or impede the Red Bull team’s pursuit for victory, such as the unpredictability of Spa’s weather conditions.
“At the moment, I also don’t know how competitive we are going to be here because a few places also there’s new tarmac, so we need to see how the tires respond to that as well,” he said. “Still a lot of unknowns.
Additionally, concerning the weather, a significant amount of rain is anticipated for both Friday and Saturday.
“Yep, we just have to keep an eye on the weather and assess our competitiveness by gathering impressions throughout the weekend.”
Verstappen maintains his lead in the World Drivers’ Championship, despite a few chaotic races. He is currently 76 points ahead of Lando Norris in second place. However, all drivers from each team will be eager to finish this race strongly before the summer shutdown begins.
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