Max Verstappen is hoping to enjoy his 21st birthday at this weekend’s Russian Grand Prix but the reality is set to be far different for Red Bull in Sochi.
The Milton Keynes outfit has never gone well around the Olympic Park circuit with two fifth-place finishes their best result in any of the previous four visits and Daniel Ricciardo failing to score in any of the last three.
As a result, both the Australian and Verstappen will be taking engine penalties meaning another back-of-the-grid start awaits for both of them and to make it worse it will be a B-spec Renault unit that both take rather than the C-spec they ran in recent races.
A difficult race on the track may not dampen the Dutchman’s spirits, however, as he reaches a life milestone.
“This year’s Russian Grand Prix will be a special one for me, it is my 21st birthday on Sunday, so hopefully I can make it one to remember,” he said.
“I think I celebrated my 18th there also, so it won’t be new to have my birthday in Sochi. I feel Russia is an up and coming Grand Prix as it still feels quite new to me.”
As for his prospects for the weekend, Max added: “It’s not the best track for our car so it’s vital to get the set-up right for specific corners, we know we will lose time on the long straights so cornering is key.”
Also Read:
- Verstappen: Singapore proved we have best car in F1
- Verstappen insists Alonso was never an option for Red Bull in 2019
For teammate Ricciardo, while acknowledging his dismal record in Sochi, he admits the thrill of racing there has actually improved over the years.
“It’s a surprisingly enjoyable lap. Apart from the long straight, there’s a lot going on and it’s a layout that keeps you thinking,” he explained.
“The track surface has also improved over the last few years. When we first went there the track was very slippery but the grip levels have improved as the track has rubbered in, making it a more enjoyable circuit to drive.
“It’s definitely grown on me since we started racing there,” he concluded.