Verstappen hails a “much more pleasant to drive” Red Bull RB16

We left him frustrated at having to retire after 11 short laps during the Austrian Grand Prix last Sunday. The day before, Max Verstappen already had the mask by accusing more than half a second behind in qualifying over the Mercedes and complained about the behavior of his Red Bull RB16. 

A week later, the Dutchman finished the opening day of the Styrian Grand Prix with the time reference, 43 thousandths ahead of the Mercedes of Valtteri Bottas. 

« The sensations behind the wheel are much better than last week, the car is more pleasant to drive in terms of its general balance; we have made good progress, rejoiced Verstappen. These are only free tests and it is naturally too early to know where we stand compared to Mercedes in pure performance but we are generally happy.

We have tried different options and I feel like we are moving in the right direction. Generally speaking, our pace in the race is better than in a flying lap but we are not going to be choosy after our effort of the day ». 

The uncertain weather could work in favor of the Red Bull clan. Because if by chance the qualifying session did not take place due to the stormy rain expected in the region all day Saturday, the EL2 rankings would then take precedence and Verstappen would then start in pole position. A prospect that the Batavian is not considering for the moment.

« I think we will be able to ride Sunday morning so I don't expect to start in front with this time He concluded. 

On the other side of the Red Bull garage, Alexander albon had a more complicated introduction. The Thai does not yet seem completely at ease with a capricious RB16 and was the victim of a minor accident.

« We tried to be creative by trying new things compared to last week; some worked, some didn't, Albon reported. The results are mixed. At the end of the session, I attacked a little too much and lost the rear. Max had a good day and feels comfortable in the car so I hope we can progress based on their lessons ».