Max Verstappen is not pleased with the alternative circuit used for the Sakhir Grand Prix. According to the Limburger, the considerably shortened track in Bahrain has nothing to do with Formula 1.
“It’s really a joke”, Verstappen grumbles on Friday after the first two free practice sessions The Telegraph. “This isn’t Formula 1 worthy, is it? Five turns and all traffic. It seems like Formula 1 wants to turn it into an entertainment show.”
The drivers will drive on the Bahrain International Circuit just like last week, but for the Grand Prix of Sakhir the track has been shortened to 3.5 kilometers. The alternative circuit has hardly any corners and for the second time in Formula 1 history, a lap takes less than a minute.
Verstappen clocked the second fastest time during both practices. The 23-year-old Red Bull Racing driver had to put up with George Russell, the replacement for the corona virus-infected Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, both times.
‘In this way they provoke danger’
According to Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, the crowds on the track are already a “nightmare” for the drivers. Verstappen believes that he is often dependent on the information from his team about the on-board radio.
“In this way they provoke danger, with all the cars so close together,” said the Dutchman. “It’s almost impossible to do this way. I think it’s ridiculous.”
On Saturday, the Sakhir Grand Prix continues with the third free practice (4 p.m. Dutch time) and qualifying (6 p.m.). Verstappen expects “enormous chaos” during qualifying. The race starts on Sunday at 6.10 p.m.
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