Albon: It’s a big step, a big difference

A big task awaits the 23-year-old Thai driver who has been taken from relative obscurity and in less than a year he finds himself in one of only six cars capable of winning races in the top flight.

Apart from adapting to the team, Albon will also be up against Verstappen at the height of his powers to this point - the inadvertent architect of Pierre Gasly's downfall - who is in fine form. The first thing on the Dutchman's agenda is sure to be showing his new teammate who's boss in blue.

These facts do not escape Albon who said in his preview of this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, “Not many drivers get the chance to drive a car capable of winning a race so early in their F1 career, so it’s a great opportunity to be driving for Red Bull.

"It’s a big step, a big difference, and the factory’s a lot closer to my house which is handy! We know what the car is capable of and we’ve seen what Max has been able to do this year.

"I want to see what it’s like compared to what I’m used to, but at the same time, I know this weekend is my first time in the car, I’m still learning and improving as a driver and there’s definitely more to come.

"I know one of the main differences will be the noise and attention that comes with the move but I’m keeping my feet on the ground. I’m just focusing on the job I have to do for Spa, I’ll be doing a lot of listening and observing.

"The track is cool and I think it’s one that everyone loves. It’s definitely a drivers track, it’s quick and there aren’t many run-off areas. It kind of goes back to that old school driving feeling where you really feel like you’re on the limit and you know if you make a mistake, you’re in the wall.

"That’s something that drivers crave. Spa hasn’t necessarily been that successful of a track for me, but we got podiums there in Formula 2 last year so it’s still been good. Also, you never know what’s going to happen there with the weather.

"We’ve got as much simulator prep done as we can, so now it’s about going through procedural things with the Team and getting to know everyone. It should be good!

"This is a big step, but I feel I’ve been through these big jumps before and taken the opportunities – I’m not worried about that. I’m focused and ready to be as strong as possible for the second half of the year," added Albon who will start his 13th grand prix when he lines up on the grid for Sunday's race at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps.

Albon will be judged from the moment he drives out on to the track this Friday for FP1, never-ending comparisons to Verstappen will be triggered from that moment on, whereupon he has to stand and deliver with nowhere to hide.

Full Red Bull preview of the 2019 Belgian Grand Prix here>>>

https://www.grandprix247.com/2019/08/20/marko-i-think-albon-is-better-than-kvyat/