Max Verstappen takes the lead in front of an enthusiastic crowd
The tens of thousands of Dutch fans were delighted with the first day at Spa-Francorchamps: their protégé, Max Verstappen, was in the lead at the end of the day. He is ahead of his team-mate, Daniel Ricciardo.
For all those stuck in traffic jams to access Spa-Francorchamps this Friday, there was no doubt: the Dutch were present in force at the Belgian circuit to support their new hero. He rewarded them in the best possible way, with a first place at the end of the second practice session: « Obviously, I’m happy to be first in front of so many Dutch fans, but it’s not yet the qualifications or the race. So let’s be patient. When I took the lead in the second session, the fans sang and waved their flags. It clearly gives me an extra boost of motivation. »
Nevertheless, he knows that Mercedes has not shown its true colors since they are primarily focusing on race preparation. Similarly, Daniel Ricciardo was well aware that this double might not be repeated: « I think on the timesheet, we look good as the two Red Bulls are first and second, but I don’t think Mercedes has used the super softs and Force India is quite close. I think we can be even faster than what we showed today, but I believe we are on pace. »
Red Bull can therefore be confident for the rest of the weekend.
From our special correspondent in Spa-Francorchamps
