Verstappen reflects on the dominant RB19
Through technical evolution, heightened experience and water-tight team unity, Max Verstappen achieved unprecedented dominance across a record-shattering 2023 Formula 1 campaign.
Formula 1 witnessed the dawn of a new era of supremacy as Max Verstappen clinched his third consecutive Drivers' Championship in rampant fashion.
The Dutchman obliterated rivals in his Red Bull RB19, compiling a record 19 wins and 454 points - over 200 clear of Lewis Hamilton in second.
He explains how continuity, experience and team chemistry catalyzed this unprecedented dominance.
With the RB19 fine-tuned to his liking, Verstappen extracted scintillating qualifying pace and metronomic race composure.
Speaking to the UK’s Channel 4 he said "I think trying to use your experience to the good," he noted, highlighting how greater maturity supplemented his burgeoning talents.
This manifested through measured driving, consolidating success while avoiding potentially costly errors.
"I think that is how to approach a weekend, how to try and get the most out of it with the setup and, besides that, it’s just consistency like trying not to make too many mistakes." - Max Verstappen
He even minimized car damage, preserving components through the year. "Damage is one of them, with a budget cap. So I think I did that again a little bit better than last year," Verstappen affirmed.
Technical advances
Red Bull built on the RB18's dominance, finetuning and enhancing its strengths in the RB19.
Verstappen felt this design continuity and growth in understanding were pivotal.
"It feels like this car was just easier to get on top of as well. In the race, especially, I think it was a bit better on tires, and that made our life a lot easier."
The car's balanced handling and tire preservation lent the team greater setup flexibility too.
"It really sometimes was very good but, sometimes, it was also like we were a bit lost with the setup and it feels like this car was just easier to get on top of as well," he added.
Team harmony
An atmosphere of trust and collaboration with his crew proved the final ingredient elevating Verstappen's performances.
"I mean, to be honest, it’s just been a lot of fun, working with the team," he acknowledged.
This symbiotic relationship repeatedly overcame sporadic opposition threats through tactical masterstrokes.
"Of course, when you start to have like a certain kind of streak, you just want more and more.
You don’t really think about where it will end, you just keep on working, and keep on trying to win more. And that’s what we did."
Comments ()