“Take my car and try it,” Max Verstappen rips the critics downplaying track limits concerns

A staggering 47 lap times were deleted at the Austrian GP qualifying due to the track limits violation and raised the age-old debate on it.

“Take my car and try it,” Max Verstappen rips the critics downplaying track limits concerns

Max Verstappen at Austrian GP press conference (Credits: PlanetF1)

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen has fired back at critics who downplayed the concerns raised by drivers about track limits during the Austrian Grand Prix. The event saw many penalties for track limits violations, leaving many drivers frustrated and the race results in disarray. The reigning champion didn’t hold back in expressing his thoughts.

“It’s super-hard to judge around here… It almost looked like we were amateurs out there, the amount of lap times that were getting deleted,” Max Verstappen exclaimed, emphasizing the difficulties drivers faced in navigating the track within the prescribed limits. He further highlighted the issue of marginal infringements, noting that even in the briefing before the race, they discussed the challenge of determining whether a violation had occurred.

YouTube video

Yet, penalties were still imposed despite the ambiguity. The Dutchman’s frustration with the criticism was evident when he challenged the skeptics to “Well, if it was that easy, then take my car and try it!” He emphasized the complexity of the task and the unlikelihood of others achieving the same level of performance.

FS Video

Discover: Max Verstappen’s comment fuels speculation of renaming Red Bull Ring as a tribute to the two-time world champion

Track limits continue to be a debate at the Red Bull Ring

Red Bull's RB19 outside the track limits at the Red Bull Ring
Red Bull’s RB19 outside the track limits at the Red Bull Ring (Credits: Crash.net)

Track limits have been a contentious topic in Formula 1, with various circuits presenting unique challenges. The Red Bull Ring, in particular, proved to be one of the worst offenders regarding track limit violations. The layout of the track, coupled with the characteristics of the final corner, made it particularly difficult for drivers to stay within the prescribed boundaries.

However, finding a satisfactory solution to the issue is not easy. Verstappen’s preference for gravel traps, a common deterrent in the past, faces obstacles due to safety concerns and the shared use of the track by MotoGP, which favors asphalt run-offs.

Other drivers, including Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, echoed Verstappen’s sentiments. Leclerc pointed out the visibility challenges at certain corners and advocated for a wider white line. Sainz raised concerns about the delay in deciding on deleted laps during the live session, calling for a more efficient process.

FIA addresses track limits issues, emphasizing safety and reviewing penalties after a lot of violations

Aston Martin outside the track limits at the Austrian GP
Aston Martin outside the track limits at the Austrian GP (Credits: WTF1)

The FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) acknowledged the focus on track limits and mentioned their efforts to improve the situation. While they have implemented measures like gravel traps at certain circuits, each venue presents its challenges and limitations. However, they also mentioned safety concerns and emphasized that they give drivers the benefit of the doubt in marginal cases.

The Austrian Grand Prix saw unprecedented penalties for track limits violations, with several drivers facing time penalties and subsequent reshuffling of the race results. The sheer volume of infractions raised concerns among organizers, prompting a thorough review of the penalties imposed.

As the debate surrounding track limits continues, it is clear that finding a balance between fairness and safety remains a complex task. The drivers’ frustrations reflect the challenges they face on the track and the need for a comprehensive solution that satisfies all stakeholders.

In case you missed it: