By Joe Murphy
Max Verstappen has raised doubts on the decision to make the returning F1 Chinese Grand Prix, the first sprint weekend of the season so far.
Formula 1 hasn’t been in Shanghai since the cancellations of the pandemic. The Grand Prix didn’t race because of cancellations for the entire four years since.
However, in somewhat of a surprise move, China was selected as the first of six sprint events this year, a decision which reigning world champion and current championship leader Verstappen has criticised. The Dutchman isn’t the biggest supporter of the format regardless, despite the undisputed success he has enjoyed, since it’s introduction. The Red Bull man said it was a smart move, clearly hinting at sarcasm over the decision by the FIA;
“It’s not great to do that because when you have been away from a track for quite a while, I think you never know what you’re going to experience, so it would have been better to have a normal race weekend there… I think it’s not the smartest thing to do.” Whilst Verstappen didn’t deny that it may be a fascinating spectacle and that in fact he does love the F1 circuit in this part of Asia, he still doesn’t think it’s the most suitable venue.
In a further development, teammate Sergio Perez agreed: “I just hope that there are no issues with the track, with any drain holes, any issues like that.” Only as the weekend progresses will be see just how the track works as a sprint selection.
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