Max Verstappen explains biggest challenge new F1 cars will throw up in 2022

Max Verstappen was at the Red Bull RB18 launch on Wednesday afternoon and the Dutchman explained that the new tyre and wheel sizes for 2022 are set to be the biggest challenge for the drivers as Formula 1 brings in new technical regulations.

The sport is entering a new era with a swathe of fresh aerodynamic regulations ushered in with a view to better racing and closer action being generated.

As well as that, new wheel dimensions are being introduced with the cars now set to sit on far bigger Pirelli tyres than they did in 2021, and Verstappen feels that will cause a new challenge for the drivers.

“I’m just looking forward to getting back in the car and start driving to see how everything is handling,” Verstappen said at the Red Bull car launch on Wednesday.

“A lot is unknown about the car. I really don’t know what it will feel like. I haven’t really driven it too much [in the simulator].

“For me, actually the biggest thing is the view in the cockpit with these big tyres. To hit an apex in some tight corners is a bit more difficult.

“The driving, it just feels like the car has a bit less grip but you will get used to that – that’s why we have the practice days, you can get used to the sliding and locking and stuff like that.

“But I think it should be fine. It’s just a bit more getting used to the view in the cockpit. Of course we are running bigger wheels but also the tyres increase, so that will make it a bit more tricky.”

F1 cockpits aren’t exactly the most forgiving places to see out of anyway, so this will add another challenge to the 20 drivers tasked with getting these machines around a circuit at nearly 200mph.

We want to see the best taking challenges like this on, though, and there’s no doubt all of them will