The Red Bull RB14 is probably the best chassis on the grid this year, but a lack of 'party mode' in qualifying has made it tough for their drivers to take the fight to their Ferrari and Mercedes rivals, especially in qualifying - now they will have the extra boost for the first time this season.
Ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix weekend, Red Bull's all-important home race, Max Verstappen is playing down expectations, “This circuit is certainly not ideal for the RB14 so we’ll have to wait and see how competitive we’ll be.”
"We did get podiums the last two years. In 2016, the competition was stronger, in 2017 we had a bit of luck. Nevertheless, I think we should fight for podiums. That would be a good result. Getting on the podium is always the goal.”
“During qualifying, we’ll be on the limit, which means every track is challenging. Here at the Red Bull Ring, the middle sector is exciting because there are a lot of gravel traps and there is not much run-off.”
As for the party-mode, Verstappen said, “I expected this the previous race. Anyway, we’ll see how much extra it will give us. It’ll depend on the circuit as well.”
Invariably thousands of orange-clad Verstappen fans will descend on the picturesque Red Bull Ring to back their driver who appreciates the efforts.
“It’s always great to see so much orange. It doesn’t lead to extra pressure. It’s just brilliant that so many Dutch fans have made such a long journey to support me. The Max Verstappen Village looks amazing,” added the 20-year-old Dutchman who is still hunting his first win of the season.
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