Verstappen: “A real chance in Singapore”

While Red Bull has not won since the Austrian GP last July, the team Milton Keynes knows that it has a good chance to play next week in Singapore, the RB14s being at their advantage on urban tracks where aero downforce is favored over engine power.

Max Verstappen, whose last success dates back to the Red Bull Ring, dreams of a first podium on the Marina Bay track after seeing his hopes of victory disappear last year when he was caught in the start clash with the Ferrari de Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen.

“The whole team is waiting for this meeting because we know we have a real chance in Singapore, comments the Dutchman who is in 5th place in the championship, 24 points behind Valtteri Bottas (Mercedes). This race has been prolific for us in the past and we should be able to compete for the podium this year. I really enjoy riding here, the track has lots of turns and it's quite bumpy, which makes the setup stage interesting. The Singapore race is the toughest of the year physically, with high temperatures pushing us to our limits. »

Daniel Ricciardo will also have serious claims. Although he has been on the podium in the last four editions (2nd in the last three GPs), he has never yet reached the top step.

“I learned a lot about the challenge that Singapore represents, explains the future pilot Renault. My first start in 2011 was one of the worst races of my career. It was so physically intense, I had underestimated the level of difficulty. I didn't want to experience this again after getting out of the car and I promised myself I would come back here more than prepared. I now take a sort of pride from it and I find myself loving this event. Pain transformed into pleasure over time. I have 4 podiums and 3 second places in a row here, it's time I win this damn race! »

Red Bull will be able to take more risks since it is isolated in 3rd place in the Constructors' Championship. His last victory at the Singapore GP dates back to 2013 when Sebastian Vettel won there.