Verstappen about his duel with Leclerc during the start of the sprint race: “Give him enough space”

Lars Leftink

Sunday 22 October 2023 10:09 AM – Last update: 11:45 AM

Max Verstappen won the sprint race at the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix on Saturday night into Sunday, leaving Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc behind after a duel with both drivers. Verstappen was happy with his race and discussed the battle with Leclerc at the start.

Verstappen started the race from pole position, having finished in pole position during the Sprint Shootout earlier on Saturday. The Dutch had Hamilton within one second for a long time, but eventually took a big lead and pulled away for a comfortable win. The Dutchman added eight points and could improve his record for the most points in an F1 season on Sunday [P1, P2, of P3 is voldoende] He also records his 50th career victory in the first division. Reverse Viaplay Verstappen was satisfied with his short race after that. “It went very well. The most important thing was to stay calm at the beginning. Once I got Lewis out of the DRS, I could start building up my own speed.”

Also interesting: What time does the US Grand Prix start?

Duel with Leclerc

Perhaps the most dramatic moment during the start was when Verstappen had to force Leclerc all the way to the left to avoid passing him before or into the first corner. Many fans thought it was on or over the edge, but Verstappen himself thought it was fine. “I gave it to him [Leclerc] Just enough space. I made it as tight as possible so he couldn’t brake too late. Before starting, you need to determine how to release the clutch and how many tires to burn, so the start was not bad. Starting from second is always more consistent here, I don’t know why.”

Track and Sunday limits

Regarding the track limits and adjustments made by the FIA ​​during Saturday, Verstappen said the following. “We were trying some things that would solve the problem. But it’s not so bad now, because in the race you don’t drive as hard as in qualifying.” Verstappen is optimistic about the race on Sunday. “Yes, it went well today! The confidence on Sunday is there, but overtaking is a different story here. We are about three to four tenths faster per lap, but I expect we will need more here. I never did.” Percentages, just yes or no. But we will definitely achieve it. Maybe fifty-fifty then.”