Max Verstappen expressed frustration and disappointment with his team’s performance after the 2023 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where a driveshaft issue forced him to start from P15 on the grid. Despite a strong recovery to finish second behind teammate Sergio Perez, Verstappen felt that he should have won the race.
Verstappen was prepared for a strong showing throughout the weekend but encountered setbacks, including hitting a curb hard enough to potentially damage the driveshaft. Despite this, he managed to climb to second place during the race, although he couldn’t catch up to Perez, who secured the victory.
Speaking on his website, Verstappen criticized the team’s problems and emphasized the need to improve collectively. He mentioned that without these issues, the race outcome could have been different. Verstappen also mentioned the challenges of navigating through the mid-pack during the race and expressed satisfaction with reaching the podium.
Although Verstappen encountered another driveshaft issue late in the race, he decided to settle for second place due to vibrations and balance issues. However, he managed to secure the fastest lap and the extra point, maintaining his lead in the drivers’ standings.
Overall, Verstappen’s comments reflect a mix of frustration with the team’s performance and determination to continue competing at a high level in the upcoming races.
