Verstappen Faces Uphill Battle at Belgian GP, Red Bull Says

Red Bull is cautious about Max Verstappen’s chances at the Belgian GP, focusing on staging the strongest possible recovery during the race.

Dr. Helmut Marko Appears Unconfident of a Max Verstappen Victory at Spa-Francorchamps This Sunday

The three-time world champion bounced back from Hungary with sustained pace during Friday’s initial free practice at his favourite track, yet was subsequently outpaced by both McLarens in the second free practice session.

“We are in the race, the issue is that we will start from 11th at best. That’s what Max is aiming for, pole on paper,” insisted team principal Christian Horner.

“According to our measurements, Lando Norris was using the engine more than us. We find ourselves more in comparison with Oscar Piastri,” who was barely two-thousandths faster than Verstappen.

“But if we only have the pace of the McLarens or a bit better, we will not be able to catch up and overtake them easily.”

Following the debut of a very different engine cover without the usual cooling cannon in Hungary, the old version was back on Verstappen’s car on Friday. However, Horner says that was always the plan.

“We’re just using a different engine cover. The rest of the car is the same as in Hungary, with the updates. This has always been the plan for fast circuits – here and Monza.”

“We change according to the circuit.”

While Sergio Perez continues to use the pre-Hungary specification, Verstappen tested a new wave-shaped rear wing during the Belgian Grand Prix trials.

Verstappen also has a new power unit installed – which will cost him ten places on the grid.

“It will be very difficult on Sunday,” admits team consultant Marko.

“At the moment, it doesn’t look like a victory is in sight. We’ll see if we can make adjustments to the settings, but we’re not concerned with the pace of McLaren. It’s about finding the right balance in the car to be able to make the best possible comeback.”