Verstappen Optimistic About Red Bull Upgrades for Hungarian Grand Prix

Max Verstappen is counting on a significant Red Bull upgrade package to maintain his lead in this year’s Formula One title race, starting with the Hungarian Grand Prix. The three-time world champion aims to secure a hat-trick of wins at this venue.

Importance of the Hungarian Grand Prix

“We brought some stuff before, but it was not particularly big. This one is a bigger one and it is a very important weekend,” said Verstappen. He emphasized the need for Red Bull Racing to increase their pace to defend both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles effectively.

Focus on Performance Gains

Verstappen acknowledged the importance of the upgrades: “If this doesn’t give us some good lap time, I don’t know how the rest of the season will evolve. We focus on ourselves and hope these changes will bring us a bit of lap time.”

Sergio Perez’s Key Weekend

For teammate Sergio Perez, the Hungarian Grand Prix is another crucial opportunity to regain his form and deliver podium finishes. Perez will need to demonstrate his ability to capitalize on the upgrades and support the team’s title defense.

McLaren’s Challenges with Team Hub

While Red Bull is optimistic about their upgrades, McLaren faced setbacks due to a storm on Wednesday, which forced the closure of their ‘Team Hub’ in the paddock. The facility was flooded, adding to previous damage from an electrical fire at the Spanish Grand Prix.

Adjustments for McLaren Team

With their main facility out of action, McLaren’s drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, will use other team facilities, while team chief Zak Brown will operate from the FIA’s hospitality area. Despite these challenges, the team remains focused on performing well.

Light-hearted Paddock Moments

In a lighter moment, English driver Lando Norris was greeted with a humorous message referencing Spain’s Euro 2024 final win over England. The message, ‘2-1 Viva Espana,’ was revealed to be the work of Carlos Sainz’s manager, Carlos Onoro, adding some levity to the competitive atmosphere.

As the Hungarian Grand Prix approaches, all eyes are on Verstappen and Red Bull to see if their new upgrades can keep them ahead in the fiercely contested championship.