Verstappen’s challenge: Winning the Canadian GP while avoiding suspension

The Spanish Grand Prix was one for Verstappen and his team to quickly put behind them. "Barcelona was disappointing for us," the four-time world champion reflects on the race weekend at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. "Although we gave it everything, it was not the way we would have liked the race to turn out."

After the challenging weekend in Barcelona, the Dutchman had some time to recoup. He traveled to Austria last week for a demonstration at Salzburg Airport's landing strip. "We have had a bit of a break after the triple header: I have been to Hangar-7 to celebrate its reopening with the Team."

He has now fully set his sights on the upcoming race weekend in Montréal. "We are looking forward to Canada. The track there is very unique, has some old school kerbs and there are plenty of opportunities for overtaking." Plenty of chances for the Austrian racing team to perform, then.

Verstappen emphasizes that the configuration of the RB21 in Canada will be of great importance. "It is always more of a challenge with the big breaking zones." Thus, three crucial free practice sessions await the team.

It will be a make-or-break moment for Verstappen, who is just one penalty point away from a suspension. He will have to behave impeccably this weekend as he can't afford a visit to the stewards.

A look back at the 2024 edition gives some hope. The Dutchman managed to win that edition. "Last year’s race was an exciting one, we were able to bring home the win and hopefully we can again bring a positive performance this week. The weather conditions are looking a bit better than last year so we will see what happens," he concludes.