Max Verstappen. Photo: Race Pictures

Verstappen hails Red Bull mind behind winning Qatar GP call

10:26, 03 Dec

byTobia Elia

Max Verstappen heaped praise on Red Bull’s principal strategy engineer, Hannah Schmitz, following the brilliant strategy that secured his victory in Qatar.

"With Hannah we have already a long working relationship and we've experienced some really great moments and great races"

- Max Verstappen

Speaking to the Today Show on the eve of the Abu Dhabi weekend, the decisive round for the Drivers’ Championship, the Dutchman said: "With Hannah we have already a long working relationship and we've experienced some really great moments and great races."

Verstappen said that both he and the entire team have great confidence in Schmitz, and that her communication is always concise and direct.

"She's very good at what she does, so we have a lot of confidence in her, and especially going into the races knowing that she is on the pit wall, for example, is great for everyone. The communication is very strong and straightforward, and that's what I like."

Hannah Schmitz on the podium in Qatar - Photo: Race Pictures

How Red Bull outsmarted McLaren in Qatar

When the safety car was triggered by the collision between Nico Hulkenberg and Pierre Gasly, most teams, Red Bull included, opted to pit. McLaren, however, stayed out — a strategy that would later prove costly for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, as the championship leader finished the race off the podium.

Red Bull’s decision to bring in their four-time world champion gave Verstappen the edge he needed to secure a smooth and commanding victory.

After the race, Hannah Schmitz detailed the strategy that allowed Verstappen to take a pivotal win in the fight for the championship.

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