Verstappen INVESTIGATION backed after Brazilian GP win following Norris…read more
Max Verstappen’s recent victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix has prompted calls for analysis and even investigation, following an extraordinary performance in tough conditions that elevated the Dutchman’s season. His win in São Paulo has caught the attention of former F1 figures, who believe that Verstappen’s technique deserves close examination for insights that could benefit other drivers.
Verstappen’s Brazilian Grand Prix weekend was anything but straightforward. The three-time world champion faced a series of setbacks that forced him to dig deep. A challenging qualification saw Verstappen knocked out in Q2, which placed him at a disadvantage, starting the main race from a modest P16 position. To make matters worse, the FIA imposed a grid penalty, further testing his ability to make his way through the field. Meanwhile, his closest championship contender, Lando Norris, was starting from pole, appearing well-positioned to claim victory. But Verstappen, known for his aggressive and highly-skilled driving style, defied expectations, showcasing resilience and a strategic approach.
As rain swept over the Interlagos circuit, Verstappen navigated the wet and slippery track with remarkable precision, moving up the ranks with each lap. He demonstrated both technical skill and adaptability, taking advantage of a red flag incident to position himself ahead. This crucial moment allowed him to secure the lead and, ultimately, the win, inching him closer to a potential fourth world title.
Amidst the admiration for Verstappen’s drive, former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner believes this victory could be an invaluable learning opportunity for others on the grid. Speaking on “The Red Flags Podcast,” Steiner voiced his support for a thorough analysis of Verstappen’s approach to the race. He recommended that drivers and their teams review Verstappen’s onboard footage to study his methods and strategies in overcoming challenging race conditions.
“Oh, yeah, absolutely,” Steiner said when asked if Verstappen’s performance should be studied. “They analyze everything. Everything will be analyzed: how did he do it? Because that is the way you learn it, how to get there yourself.” He explained that watching successful drivers can help others improve their own techniques by observing their lines, braking points, and general handling of the car under adverse conditions.
Steiner emphasized the importance of reviewing the onboard footage, noting that there’s much to learn from Verstappen’s drive. He suggested that by examining how Verstappen handled the car in each moment, drivers could gain insights into navigating similar scenarios in future races. According to Steiner, “The only way to understand it [is to watch]. There’s so much information there that you just go through it.”
This detailed look at Verstappen’s Brazilian GP performance offers a broader glimpse into how top drivers can elevate their skills. Steiner’s comments have underscored how valuable such an approach could be across the field, as every driver aims to reach Verstappen’s level of mastery.
