Verstappen enters the Chinese Grand Prix 'neutral' and without prediction
Red Bull Content Pool
F1 News
Max Verstappen has stated that he remains 'neutral' ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix. Speaking to Viaplay, the Dutchman was reserved and refused to make any predictions for the race weekend.
Max Verstappen finished just a few tenths behind Lando Norris at the first race of 2025 in Australia last weekend. The Dutchman struggled in the middle part of the race, however, dropping away from the two McLaren drivers before late-race chaos brought him back into the battle.
''Neutral,'' Verstappen replied when asked about his feelings after Australia and what mindset he brings to China. The reigning world champion kept it brief and refrained from any predictions. ''Not too positive, not too negative. That actually works best. If you don't put so much emotion into it, then it's all a bit easier.'' he sounded down-to-earth.
How much confidence does Verstappen have in China?
''I just focus on my car and every weekend we try to make some improvements or learn something more. That's how we go every weekend.''
Still, China presents a completely different challenge compared to Australia, featuring a traditional race circuit and freshly laid asphalt:''Here it's always tough on the tyres, only now with the new asphalt it's always just a matter of waiting.''
Verstappen may have to brace himself for another strong challenge from McLaren. Lando Norris appeared confident ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix, suggesting in the press conference that the race in Shanghai could be even easier for McLaren than in Australia. He also dismissed speculation that the FIA's new technical directive would hinder McLaren, instead implying that other teams would be the ones to struggle.
This article was written in collaboration with Tim Kraaj
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