Max ahead of Suzuka: 'adapt driving style to whatever is quickest'
Published on 03 April 2025 by Stefan Meens
On the Thursday ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, Max Verstappen addressed the motorsports media in the Suzuka paddock. The first topic to be addressed is Oracle Red Bull Racing’s driver change, with Yuki Tsunoda replacing Liam Lawson. The former joins Max at Red Bull, with the latter returning to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.
“I’ve known Yuki for a long time because he’s part of the Red Bull family. It’s a natural progression. Everyone does their best to be succesful in F1 and everyone deserves their chance. The team have prepared him as best as they could”, says Max who spoke with the team about the change in line-up. “We’ve all had our say, and now we move on. There’s no need to discuss this in public.”
How do you think the characteristics of the RB21 compare to other F1 cars? “I’ve been part of the same team, so that’s difficult to say because I haven’t driven any other cars. So I don’t know if it’s more or less difficult to drive another car.”
Is there someone who could emulate your driving style? “I don’t know. Everyone is different and that’s the way it should be. Every driver will have a preference; that’s the same in every team. I just try to adapt my driving style to whatever is quickest. I would adapt my driving style if I drove a different car. It’s about adapting to the situation you’re in.”
The reigning champ adds: “I just drive to the limit of the car. It might not be the easiest car, but we always work on improving the car. At the moment, we aren’t as competitive as we would like, but we are trying to maximise every result. We are trying to get more performance on the car and to make the car a bit more predictable to find a better balance, which equals more pace.”
After the two opening rounds of the championship, it looks like McLaren are fastest. Will you be able to beat them? “Every track is different, but it looks like they’re quite comfortable. But you never know. We try to maximise our weekend and we’ll have to see if that’s enough. Regardless, we’ll keep working hard.”
Order a scale model of the white RB21 and/or Max's Japanese helmet here: www.verstappen.com/collections/japan-collection
