Max Verstappen faces a new challenge this weekend; the Italian GP is approaching, offering the Dutchman a chance to return to ‘one of his favorite circuits’ on the F1 calendar. Verstappen hopes to quickly put his disappointing performance at the Dutch GP behind him. The focus in Monza is on improving the balance of his RB22, after the faulty Red Bull also caused him trouble in Zandvoort.
Read more Max Verstappen has to give way to Red Bull during the first practice session at Monza
“It was disappointing that I couldn’t finish the race in Zandvoort, but it was still very special to see the fans one last time at the circuit and to be able to thank them for all the wonderful memories,” Verstappen responded via the official team channels. “We are going to Monza after a reset. It is difficult to predict how competitive we will be there. There are a few things we need to work on to get closer to the pace of the other top teams,” he admitted. “First of all, we need to ensure that the car’s balance is good.”
“Monza is one of my favorite circuits and I like that it is an old-fashioned, fast circuit,” Verstappen added. “I always enjoy coming here and seeing the passionate fans. It is a circuit where we have generally performed well in the past, so we will see what is possible.”
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Driver changes at Red Bull
Verstappen will once again be accompanied by Liam Lawson during the weekend. Red Bull announced Wednesday afternoon that regular driver Isack Hadjar is still struggling with a wrist injury and is not fit enough to step in. During the first free practice for the Italian GP, Verstappen must also give up his car to another driver. To meet rookie requirements, Red Bull is giving the car during FP1 to test and reserve driver Ayumu Iwasa.
Read more Injured Isack Hadjar also on the bench during the Italian GP, Liam Lawson back to Red Bull
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