Max Verstappen has made a notable omission when offering his forecast for the top three positions in the Drivers’ Championship this season, overlooking his teammate and last year’s runner-up Sergio Perez.
In the previous season, Red Bull enjoyed what could be considered the most dominant performance by a Formula 1 team, securing 21 out of 22 Grand Prix victories and achieving a historic 1-2 finish in the standings.
Verstappen emerged victorious with an impressive tally of 575 points, while Perez contributed significantly with 285 points, solidifying Red Bull’s dominance as they clinched the Constructors’ Championship with more than double the points of Mercedes.
However, Verstappen anticipates a shift in fortunes for the upcoming season, as he predicts a different trio occupying the top three positions in the Drivers’ Championship.
Despite Red Bull’s formidable showing in the previous season, Verstappen envisions himself being joined by Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc in the elite ranks for this season.
He expressed this viewpoint during a Q&A preview session for the season; “Me, then Lewis, and then Charles.”
His teammate Perez was notably absent from the discussion. Even in the context of selecting a driver likely to win a Grand Prix this season, Verstappen did not include the Mexican driver, instead favoring McLaren’s Lando Norris for that coveted P1 spot.
He made these remarks on the eve of the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend, marking the beginning of the Formula 1 season. “Well for sure I hope I do, but we won’t write that down. I think I’ll go for someone who hasn’t won one yet… Lando!”
Verstappen, who commenced his title defense impressively in Bahrain by securing both the win and the fastest lap point, shared his projection for the season, estimating his total victories to reach 12 out of 22 races.
This forecast marks a noticeable decrease from last year’s tally of 19 victories, as he adopted a cautious approach. “Twelve,” he affirmed. “If it becomes more I can always say I did a better job.”
Regarding the timing of wrapping up the Drivers’ Championship, a feat he achieved last season during Qatar’s sprint race with six Grand Prix still remaining, Verstappen anticipates concluding the season in Las Vegas.“I think with three to go. I don’t know which one that is,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Verstappen offered promising prospects for Red Bull’s junior team, RB, foreseeing a podium finish. However, he refrained from specifying whether it would be his former teammate Daniel Ricciardo or Yuki Tsunoda who would secure the coveted top-three result.
He also included; “How are we going to call the team… Visa Cash App RB, they’ll get a podium.”
