Max Verstappen gives early thoughts on new Red Bull after testing run

Formula 1 testing is fully underway in Barcelona with today the first of three days of action taking place at the Catalunya circuit.

Each team is getting a first good look at how their new car is performing alongside the new rules and regulations for the 2022 campaign, and each team is also getting a look at how each of their rivals’ cars are shaping up.

Red Bull have perhaps caused the biggest stir with their dramatic sidepods, meanwhile, and they’ll be hoping that their design is going to give Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez an advantage when it comes to racing in earnest this year.

The Dutchman, of course, is looking to defend his world title after winning it on the final lap of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2021, and he took his new machine for a spin on Wednesday morning, coupled with the number 1 emblazoned on his nose cone.

After the run, he had this to say in terms of his early thoughts on the RB18.

“We got our first impression of the RB18 at our filming day last week and the car looks good.

“The rules are very different this year and so it is nice to get your first few laps in and get a feel for it.

“I don’t have any aims for the season yet, I just want to rock up to the track and try and do the best I can, like I do every single year. If the car is quick, I am sure we can do a very good job again.

“I am looking forward to another fun year together with the team and Checo, he is a great guy and we really push each other, which at the end of the day is good for the team.”