The #3 Mercedes of Max Verstappen is in the garage! Less than an hour after the F1 driver handed the car over to Daniel Juncadella, the Spaniard had to guide the car back to the pit lane. The team confirms that it is a problem with the driveshaft. Verstappen Racing has been stationary for quite some time and is dropping down the timing sheets. The team was in contention for the overall win but has now fallen outside the top ten.
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Around 12:00, Daniel Juncadella got out of the car. The disappointment was clear on his face; after Verstappen’s stint, the team was still on course for the overall win at the Nürburgring. According to team principal Stefan Wendel, it is a driveshaft issue. “We got an ABS warning, but Daniel Juncadella said he could handle it,” he responded to the cameras. “Then he heard strange noises and the car started to shake, forcing him to make an unplanned pit stop after two laps.”
Broken driveshaft
In the garage, the mechanics quickly found the cause of the problem. “We discovered damage to the driveshaft, which then damaged more parts of the car,” he continued disappointedly. “We are now working on repairs and absolutely want to get back on track,” he added. Verstappen and company can now forget about the victory; sister team and competitor RAVENOL is currently in the lead. Reportedly, the Winward mechanics are doing everything they can to repair the #3 Mercedes for an honorable final stint.
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After his morning session, there seemed to be no problems for Verstappen. The Dutchman visibly enjoyed the challenge. “The competition, the endurance racing with teammates,” he beamed. “A 24-hour race here is just enormously challenging. That whole combination.” Will we see him back next year? “I will definitely try, but it also depends on my calendar,” he responded happily. He may then get the chance to make a comeback.
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