F1 News
Verstappen expects an answer to Honda's starting problems with new-spec PU
Max Verstappen has asked for a solution to Honda's starting problems after struggling to move away from his grid box a number of times during the 2019 Formula 1 season. Honda's relationship with Red Bull has been successful, with race starts its main issue.
Honda will be giving Verstappen their spec-4 engine this weekend which is expected to offer some improvement to the starts. Despite the problems with the then motor supplier Renault, a good start in 2018 often resulted in winning places, while a worse start with Honda ended immediately in a loss of places.
"We know what the problem is, but it's really hard to solve. Hopefully now with the new engine, it will be a bit better. As soon as I release the clutch, that bit afterward, we seemed to struggle a bit," Verstappen told Motorsport.com.
"Somehow this year when I release the clutch we immediately sometimes get too much wheelspin. The tyres being cooler, maybe they play a part in that. Of course, it's not an excuse. Still I think we can do better, and hopefully, with the new engine, it will be better."