Verstappen Explains Radical Soft Tyre Call at Dutch GP
Summary
Max Verstappen details his unconventional soft tyre start at the Dutch GP, explaining why it was his preferred strategy and his race day decisions.
Max Verstappen has detailed Red Bull's unconventional decision to start the Dutch Grand Prix on soft tyres, a choice no other leading driver made.
Why it matters
While most top drivers opted for medium tyres, Verstappen's bold strategy allowed him to gain crucial positions early in the race, notably leapfrogging Lando Norris. He ultimately secured a second-place finish, extending his impressive top-two record at his home Grand Prix.
The details
- Unique Strategy: Of the 20 drivers on the grid, only Verstappen and his teammate Yuki Tsunoda (starting 12th) began the race on soft compound tyres.
- Personal Preference: Verstappen explained that the soft tyre strategy was his preferred option after Friday's practice sessions. He stated, "That for me felt the best after Friday, so it was planned."
- Race Execution: Starting from third on the Zandvoort grid, Verstappen utilized the soft tyres' superior grip to pass second-placed Lando Norris. He acknowledged that safety car periods later forced everyone to pit for fresh tyres, but affirmed, "it was all according to plan."
- Initial Battle: "The start was alright, to be honest, and then I tried to go around the outside of Turn 1, and then into Turn 2," Verstappen recalled. "With the soft compound, I just still pushed the entry and then went a bit sideways heading into Turn 3, but it was all okay."
- No Point in Fighting: After Norris re-passed him on Lap 9, Verstappen consciously decided not to engage in a prolonged battle. He noted, "You could see it's a different league. There's no point trying to ruin your own race defending really hard or losing two, three laps defending for your life. Unfortunately, there's no point in that."
- Final Result: Verstappen finished second after Norris retired with an engine failure, securing a podium finish behind winner Oscar Piastri.
What's next
Verstappen's explanation highlights his decisive approach to racing and Red Bull's flexible strategic planning, even in high-pressure home race scenarios.
Original Article :https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-explains-radical-red-bull-dutch-gp-deci...