Max Verstappen: “I thought I wasn’t going to race”

We can call each other Max Verstappen, being one of the most talented in wet conditions in F1 …and make a mistake on the lap to reach the starting grid before the formation lap even begins.

This is the mishap that happened this Sunday before departure to the pilot Red Bull, surprised by the track conditions at the wheel of an RB16 then fitted with intermediate tires. A broken front wing, but also damage to the front suspension arms made the Dutchman fear the worst for a while.

But yet, at the cost of a magnificent takeoff and a well-run race, with great resistance at the end against Valtteri Bottas (Mercedes), it’s a second place which concludes a poorly started deal.

« I thought I wasn't going to run, admits “Mad Max” at the foot of the podium. TFinishing second is a bit like a victory. The mechanics did an incredible job repairing the car. I don't know how they did it. I am delighted to thank them with this second place. »

After his superb start, Verstappen was able to maintain the pace at the wheel of a car which did not seem difficult to him. “It was good, like new, emphasizes Verstappen. It was just in time, but everything worked fine.

The first part of the race was very crucial and from there I think we made the right choices, and we had a good pace. »

A tempo sufficient to keep Valtteri Bottas behind until the checkered flag despite the obvious speed of the Finn, who attempted a three-stop strategy to try to steal 2nd place from the No. 33 Red Bull.

“Following here is quite tricky, so as soon as he was around 1″5, it was a little more difficult for him, recognizes the Batavian pilot. On the last lap, we also had traffic in front, which didn't make my task easier on worn tires. But we managed to hang on. »

Ultimate reward, Verstappen was elected Driver of the Day this Sunday in Hungary. His performance was well worth that.

Discover the full report and analysis of the Hungarian Grand Prix, produced by our special correspondent in Budapest, in AUTO issue 2270hebdo, available tomorrow evening in digital version and this Wednesday on newsstands.