Verstappen: Hamilton's package won't make our lives easier

Max Verstappen refuses to consider himself favorite for the Sakhir Grand Prix after the withdrawal of Lewis Hamilton.

The absence of the seven-time world champion after testing positive for Covid-19 could however reshuffle the cards this weekend. 

The Briton won 11 of the 15 races contested in 2020 and remained undefeated since Sochi at the end of September. But the Dutchman, who is fighting with Valtteri Bottas for the runner-up place in the championship, believes that Hamilton's absence will not make his task any easier. 

« Ok, Lewis is not here but there will always be Valtteri and George (Russell) behind the wheel of the best car on the grid, reacted Verstappen. It will still be very, very hard, especially given the route. The lap times are likely to be very close and I expect the cars behind to be closer as well. »

The Sakhir GP is in fact contested on the outer track of the Bahrain International Circuit: a short track, which gives pride of place to engine power with long straights. These characteristics worry Verstappen who remembers the Monza meeting, where Red Bull was not in the best shape. 

« The route is a little different compared to Monza, remarked the Batavian. There are a few corners where you can stand out. At Monza, everyone rides with very little downforce so you lack it on the straights.

The levels of support will be different here so I hope we will be more in the game, I even pray ».

Real concern or bluff from Verstappen, who is 12 points behind Bottas in the Drivers' standings? First answers this afternoon with free practice on Friday.