Verstappen: “Lap times don’t mean much”

On its land, at least that of its title sponsor, the team Red Bull Racing experienced some difficulty settling into the shoes of the number 1 outsider of Mercedes during free practice on Friday. 

The leader of the Austrian team, Max Verstappen, achieved “only” the third fastest time in FP1, before focusing on the long stints in FP2 (8th). But the Dutchman had a good excuse to make.

“The lap times don't mean much because I broke my front wing on the attack lap. So, we then had to wear a new muzzle. We were too aggressive with this wing choice and I spun, but it didn't matter, explains the two-time outgoing winner of the Austrian Grand Prix. 

The Team get back on track in Austria as we rack up the laps in Friday's Free Practice More https://t.co/hcvb2xAFI1 #AustrianGP pic.twitter.com/7aBHRoNW84

— Aston Martin Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) July 3, 2020

Here, the curbs are what they are, it's the same story for everyone, and the front wing doesn't appreciate the yellow "sausages" (at the edge of the track. Editor’s note). So we have to be careful. »

Despite this call to order, Max the menace says he is “confident after this satisfying day. " His colleague Alexander albon was more discreet with the seventh and thirteenth beats. 

“It feels good to be back behind the wheel!” All the drivers were on track this morning very early, which surprised me quite a bit, he said. It's been a while since we've done this many laps. So, we have to review a lot of data before moving on to Saturday. »

The old pilot Toro Rosso will try to improve over the sessions. “There are areas where we have to work, and we can always find time in driving and adjustments. »