F1 News

Verstappen on overtaking Hamilton in Belgian Grand Prix

Verstappen on overtaking Hamilton: 'Was impossible to start with'

30 July 2023 at 16:34
Last update 30 July 2023 at 17:02
26
  • Matt Gretton
  • Editor-in-Chief

Max Verstappen secured his eighth consecutive race win in the Belgian Grand Prix, but it wasn't as straightforward as normal. Red Bull Racing fitted a new gearbox in Verstappen's car, and he had to take a five-place grid penalty. That meant that Verstappen had to do some overtaking. 

His 2021 title rival Lewis Hamilton was one of the drivers ahead. The Dutchman explained his difficulty in overtaking the Mercedes car. So much so that Verstappen had to spend a few laps waiting patiently. 

DRS range at Spa-Francorchamps

"I got stuck behind Lewis because he was in the DRS of Charles [Leclerc]. And with them [Mercedes] having the highest top speed this weekend, it was just impossible to pass. So I had to wait for him to drop out of the DRS. And as soon as he didn't have DRS anymore, I could pass. And then I think two or three laps later, I could pass Charles. But with that, I think I hurt my tyres a bit too much," Verstappen remembers. 

Verstappen then confirms the car felt much better on the medium tyres. After the pitstop, Verstappen pushed hard and closed the gap to Sergio Perez instantly. That overtake was simple. 

"As soon as I had my stop onto the medium, I could feel that the car was in a much better window, and I could go a lot faster. That was really where it started to come alive and really enjoyable to drive. Once I got in the lead also, I could really look after the tyres as well," Verstappen added. 

Verstappen now goes into the summer break with a 125-point advantage in the World Championship. The next race takes place in The Netherlands, where he will feel the support of the home crowd.