Max Verstappen: "I'm still getting better" in Formula 1
F1 News
- Bevan Youl
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen says that he is “still getting better” as a driver in Formula 1 after making mistakes early on in his career that he believes were common in Formula 2.
Back in 2015 Verstappen had been promoted to a F1 drive with Toro Rosso, having only driven in the European Formula 3 series the year before, finishing third.
His first season started off a bit shaky before finishing in the points for six consecutive races towards the end of the season, to then be promoted again just four races through in 2016 to a Red Bull seat and winning on his debut in Spain.
Since then Verstappen and developed as a driver, especially in the last twelve months, going 21 races without a retirement or finishing outside the top five.
The Dutchman said (quoted by MotorsportWeek): “Last year, from the second half of the season it’s good,” said Verstappen on his form.
“It can always be better. Over the years, you learn how to be better.
“Through experience, from the races I’ve done, I’m definitely not a rookie now, I’ve done 90 plus starts, so of course, I did only one year in F3 and getting into F1 is a big jump, so I guess you made a few mistakes which maybe others have made in F2.
“I’m still getting better. I’m only 21.
“[I have better] consistency, knowing when to peak, when not to, when to take a risk, when not to. Trying to bring a result back and score the points.”
Verstappen is currently third in the championship behind Valtteri Bottas by seven points going into Spa.