Aside from being a dominant force in Formula 1, Max Verstappen is known for competing in other racing endeavours. Arguably, his most famous hobby is online racing, where the Dutchman competes in several endurance events. However, Red Bull have limited when he can participate in these activities.
Helmut Marko reveals new rules for Verstappen
Verstappen has juggled his sim racing commitments with Formula 1 in the past. Prior to the Imola GP, for example, he completed two stints for Team Readline in a 24-hour race.
Since Verstappen claimed victory ahead of Lando Norris, Red Bull showed no interest in enforcing a restricted timetable for Verstappen off-track.
If anything, the Dutchman’s commitment to racing at any opportunity elevated his perception among observers.
That said, the situation was different last weekend in Hungary.
The Hungaroring exposed Red Bull’s limitations, which the upgrades brought to the RB20 did not adequately address.
Verstappen tangled with Lewis Hamilton in the final stages of the race, finishing in P5 to round off a generally underwhelming weekend.
This sub-par result can be traced to a less competitive package and sub-optimal strategy.
However, participation in an online race – the night before the Grand Prix – is not something Red Bull want to see repeated.
Red Bull take no chances
Helmut Marko reveals that competing in simulator events before a race will not be permissible moving forward:
“His late-night sim appearance on the Hungary weekend only came about because a driver in his team had dropped out
“Nevertheless, we agreed that he would no longer run simulations so late in the future,” he wrote on Speedweek.
Red Bull’s decision to put some restrictions on Verstappen’s extracurricular activities is hardly a groundbreaking one.
It is natural for teams to demand their drivers follow certain guidelines during race weekends.
Still, this course of action is noteworthy. Although Verstappen’s simulator events unlikely impacted his performance, Red Bull did not want to take any chances.
As the battle at the front intensifies, no stone is left unturned at Milton Keynes.
