IMOLA, ITALY – APRIL 24: Max Verstappen, from the Netherlands, driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB18 on track during the Formula 1 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari on April 24, 2022 in Imola, Italy. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Verstappen and Red Bull faced challenges in Miami, struggling to master the handling of the RB20 car. Lando Norris and McLaren took advantage of this, aided by a Safety Car, and prevented Verstappen from clinching a race victory.
The upcoming race in Imola promises to be more exciting. Ferrari will introduce a significant upgrade package for their SF-24, and Red Bull has been diligently preparing for the event. Verstappen has expressed his excitement to race at the iconic Imola track, known for its technical complexity and intricate corners.
The Red Bull Racing team has been working tirelessly, both at their headquarters in Milton Keynes and on the track. Verstappen personally spent time at the factory, using simulators to enhance his performance. He is looking forward to competing in Europe again and is eager to see the weekend’s results.
On the other hand, Sergio Perez is hoping for dry weather in Imola, unlike the rain that disrupted the race in 2023. He acknowledges the challenging conditions that Imola can present and how they can affect practice sessions and qualifying. Perez remains optimistic about the forecast, which predicts dry weather for Friday and Saturday, giving the team a strong position for Sunday’s race.
Perez also spent time at the factory, focusing on optimizing the car’s setup and improving performance based on the lessons learned in Miami. He emphasizes the importance of making the right decisions as a team throughout the weekend to secure a spot on the podium in Italy.
This weekend, the grid will pay tribute to Ayrton Senna, an inspiring figure for many in the world of racing. Perez proudly wears the Forever Senna balaclava, in honor of the late three-time Formula 1 champion, who played a significant role in shaping the careers of current drivers.
