Max Verstappen is keeping his expectations for the Belgian Grand Prix modest: realistically, he says, anything more than P3 is not feasible. The Dutchman doubts he can compete for the win, even if it rains – as predicted. “We haven’t really had a chance in the rain this year,” says the four-time world champion. “P3 in the race is realistic, but that’s about it.”
When it was dry around noon on Saturday, Verstappen brilliantly raced to victory in the sprint race. However, he will not repeat this feat on Sunday afternoon at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, unless a miracle happens. That miracle could be ‘rain’, but the Dutchman is already tempering expectations after his fourth place in the qualification.
“I think we have to fight for P3,” Verstappen therefore asserts. “That’s realistic.” And does it matter whether it’s raining or dry? “In dry weather, the third place in the race is definitely the starting point. Maybe rain can cause some chaos. But even then, McLaren usually has an advantage.”
