Max Verstappen, a two-time world champion, recently discussed other activities that F1 drivers engage in during race weekends. The majority of F1 fans pay close attention to driver interviews and on-track practice sessions. F1 drivers, though, are responsible for much more.
Max Verstappen highlighted to Speedweek how the majority of F1 drivers’ time is spent in significant meetings with their various teams. The Dutchman claims that team meetings might last anything from 30 minutes to 90 minutes. Max Verstappen stated:
“The morning team meeting is the most crucial gathering. That could need 90 minutes. This meeting should end in around 30 minutes, barring any unforeseen circumstances. In essence, we complete the entire day. Naturally, there will also be performances for the sponsors. There is a lot to do.”
After the first two practice sessions, Max Verstappen studied how drivers engaged with race control in more detail. They often talk about the course, safety, and other elements of the race weekend at this meeting.
The meeting’s duration might be anywhere from 10 minutes to over an hour. Additionally, drivers meet with Pirelli and the GPDA. Max Verstappen added:
“After the first two open practice sessions, the drivers meet with the race control in the evening. We occasionally discuss incidents from previous Grands Prix. Or we discuss the track’s safety concerns. The range is quite wide here.”
This indicates that F1 racers have a ton of extra meetings to go to in addition to driving, participating in interviews, and attending drivers’ press conferences. Consequently, a racing weekend may be very challenging at times.
Despite the FIA’s fine for Red Bull, Max Verstappen is optimistic about the 2023 Formula One season
Red Bull was under investigation by the FIA for exceeding the expenditure cap during the 2022 F1 season. The team was thus penalized by the governing authority, which fined them $7 million and even shortened their wind tunnel testing period. Despite everything, Max Verstappen is certain that Red Bull will triumph and successfully defend their title.
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Max Verstappen acknowledges that the punishment will have some impact on the squad, but he has confidence in his teammates. Additionally, Red Bull already has the design for a championship-winning vehicle for the 2022 season. So they won’t have too much problem building a potent vehicle for the next season.
“Well, I mean, it will affect us, but how much?” remarked Max Verstappen. “I’m not quite sure. I’m sure that will serve as further inspiration for the team and the individuals on it to work even harder. I am aware that they always offer their best effort.”
Red Bull already has less time for wind tunnel tests since they are the current world champions. To keep Ferrari and Mercedes in their rearview mirrors next season, the Austrian team will need to do everything possible.
