“Time to change that” – Max Verstappen hoping to create personal history at Baku GP

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3 years ago

Max Verstappen of Netherlands and Red Bull Racing prepares to drive in the garage during qualifying for the F1 Grand Prix of Italy at Autodromo di Monza on September 07, 2019 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)

Max Verstappen is yet to feature on the podium in a Baku GP

New F1 championship leader Max Verstappen sets his own sights on improving his record at the Azerbaijan GP and extending his Championship lead over Lewis Hamilton.

Baku is another street circuit, but features significantly faster straights than Monaco. The Dutchman has achieved numerous firsts this season, winning the Italy GP and Monaco GP and has been arguably the most consistent driver this season.

Verstappen famously crashed with teammate Daniel Ricciardo in 2018

His performance at Monte Carlo ensured both and Red Bull sat top of the respective World Championship standings ahead of title rivals Mercedes.

Baku GP represents another obstacle for Verstappen to overcome as he goes there with a poor record to improve upon.

Verstappen only has a best finish of fourth to his name at the Baku GP.

“Of course, it was nice to take the lead in the drivers’ championship, but I’ve always said: I don’t want to be ahead in the fifth race of the season, but at the end of the season. I’ve never been on the podium there so it’s time to change that. Let’s see how competitive we are, I do expect Mercedes to come back strong there though.”

– Max Verstappen ( h/t Sky Sports )

Mercedes’ Dominance at Baku

The 7-time Constructors’ champions have won on three of F1’s four previous visits to the Azerbaijani capital and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner acknowledged: “It has been a strong track for Mercedes in the past and so we’re not under any illusions.” ( h/t Sky Sports )

Mercedes have won 3 out of the 4 races in the Azerbaijan capital

Mercedes suffered one of their worst performances at Monaco with Valterri Bottas unable to finish the race due to a wheel nut. Their pits-top strategy didn’t pay off as Hamilton ended in 7th place.

Heading into the race weekend, Mercedes could be the favorites to win. This is because the outfit has enjoyed considerable success on the street circuit. However, Red Bull has also performed reasonably well, having racked up a win there. Therefore, it is really tough to call. The long straight could benefit Mercedes‘ top speed, but Red Bull could excel in the tight and twisty sections.