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Verstappen: Baku isn't "suited to our car"

09:16, 22 Apr 2018

bySam Bytheway

Red Bull's Max Verstappen is looking to make up for last years "missed opportunities" in Baku but admits the RB14 lacks the straight-line speed needed.

Verstappen had to retire from last year's Azerbijian Grand Prix on lap 12 of the race with oil pressure issues. Verstappen's retirement, coupled with the retirement of Kimi Raikkonen's Ferrari and a clash between Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton meant Daniel Ricciardo took the victory. The race also saw 18-year old Canadian Lance Stroll take 3rd in the Williams, becoming the second-youngest driver to step on an F1 podium and the first Canadian since Jaques Villeneuve in 2002.

This year, Verstappen will be looking to make up for the race in 2017.

“Last year was a very unfortunate weekend for me. It was a shame because the car felt really good but I encountered a lot of problems which ultimately meant I missed out on a potential podium, perhaps even a win," the Dutchman said.

"I’m hoping this year I can make up for that lost opportunity.

“Baku is a cool place so I enjoy going there and driving the track. It’s a nice circuit even though it isn’t ideally suited to our car.

“The straight is so long which means we miss out on some valuable time there. Last year I think we managed to drive around our problems really well and therefore be competitive come the race day.”