The Red Bull team is eagerly anticipating the start of the new Formula 1 season in Australia. While Max Verstappen initially had low expectations for the opening race in Melbourne, the team could benefit from the changing weather conditions. However, Red Bull still needs to build some confidence in the brand-new RB21 – the car is not yet living up to expectations.
According to the latest weather reports, it will be sunny and warm during the first qualification of the year at and around the Albert Park Circuit, and it will remain dry. However, on Sunday, when the Grand Prix is held, the weather is expected to change, with a 90% chance of rain. As a result, Max Verstappen is preparing for an unpredictable weekend. “The weather is going in all directions,” he told RaceFans. “We are likely to face both heat and rain.”
‘Just Have to Race’
Nevertheless, the reigning world champion is pleased that the season opener is being held in Australia again. “I prefer to come here for the first race,” the Red Bull driver continued. “That’s how I started in Formula 1. Later, the season opener was moved to another Grand Prix.” For the past three years, the Bahrain International Circuit has been the venue for the first race of the year. “The circuit is very fast,” Verstappen referred to Albert Park. “A few years ago they changed the layout, which has made it even more exciting to race on.”
Regardless of the bizarre weather conditions, the Red Bull team remains focused on improving the RB21. Max Verstappen indicated that he is not dissatisfied with his new vehicle, although there is room for improvement. “I think we all expected a bit more,” he honestly admitted. Nevertheless, he remained positive: “I’m just very happy that we’re here now, because then we can finally see where we stand. Otherwise, you just keep thinking about it, and that’s pointless. At some point, you just have to start and hope that it all turns out well.”
