Max Verstappen is about to begin his first full season as a Red Bull Racing driver and the best way for the Dutchman to kick off the year would be with a win around the Albert park Circuit this coming Sunday afternoon.
While he has already gone on the record saying that he doesn’t think the Red Bull will be on par with the likes of Mercedes and Ferrari when it comes to the first race, in reality no one really knows who is where until the action begins on Friday.
Max has already arrived Down Under and is getting acclimatized for what will be one of the most exciting races of the modern era…..
How do you mentally prepare for the first race of the season, especially given the distance to travel to Melbourne?
We always arrive in Australia a bit early due to the time difference, this way we have a bit longer to acclimatise. The first two or three days you struggle with jetlag a bit but then it's fine because you are just really excited for the first race of the year.
Is that process made a bit easier by going out and about in the city?
I enjoy going to Melbourne; it's a cool city, nice environment and good weather, so generally a great place to stay. I found some nice restaurants down by the Yarra River, so whenever we have time I will head down there for some dinner.
What about the race weekend itself, it is a nerve-wracking moment, finally getting to see where the car stands in the pecking order?
The first race is always exciting, as you never really know where you are in terms of performance with the car because everything is so new. This is reflected in the paddock too; it's a refreshing feeling. Being Daniel's home grand prix he obviously gets a lot of support, which is very nice for him. I can't wait to feel the buzz of all the cars going out for the first practice and seeing the excitement on everyone's face.
