Max Verstappen has vehemently dismissed claims that Red Bull Racing tailors their Formula 1 cars to accommodate his specific driving style. The persistent notion that the team prioritizes Verstappen’s preferences, leaving his teammates struggling to adapt, has been circulating in the F1 community for years. This theory gained support from some of his former teammates who believed they were at a disadvantage compared to the Dutch driver.
Sergio Perez, Verstappen’s current teammate, has consistently been outscored by the Dutchman throughout their three seasons together. Last year, Perez’s father perpetuated the claim that the car is set up for Verstappen’s driving style, emphasizing the focus on front-end grip. According to Perez Sr., Verstappen’s position as the team’s leading driver is well-established, and the entire team is built around his championship aspirations. He suggested that if Verstappen were to move to another team, his performance might not be as stellar.
In response to these allegations, Verstappen refuted the idea that he benefits from a car uniquely tailored to his driving style. Speaking to Motorsport.com, the triple world champion asserted that his driving style is not radically different and that he, too, has to adapt to various situations on the track. When asked about his driving style, Verstappen explained that it is about adapting to the specific conditions and what the car favors.
Contrary to the accusations, Verstappen emphasized that the team’s upgrades are not geared towards following a specific balance direction but are aimed at overall load and grip improvements, contributing to the car’s increased speed. He expressed satisfaction with the car’s behavior but acknowledged the need to adapt his driving style depending on whether the car tends towards understeer or oversteer. Verstappen highlighted the variability in balance from race to race and admitted that, in certain situations, he has to modify his approach to suit the car’s characteristics.
In essence, Verstappen dispelled the notion that Red Bull Racing tailors their cars exclusively for him, emphasizing the ongoing adjustments and adaptations he makes to suit the ever-changing dynamics of each race and the characteristics of the car he is given.
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