Max Verstappen stated that his Red Bull vehicle’s engine ceased functioning entirely at the commencement of the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, leading to the Dutch driver’s premature withdrawal from the race.
Despite predictions, Verstappen and the Red Bull team contended for pole position on the Monaco urban track, with the multiple world champion surpassing both Ferrari racers before Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes narrowly secured the top starting spot.
However, the racer’s experience on Sunday afternoon was brief as he encountered an engine stall at the race’s outset, forcing him to veer aside to prevent collision with the following pack. A visibly annoyed Verstappen communicated over the radio, expressing his extreme displeasure with the situation.
Following a temporary restart, Verstappen was compelled to return his Red Bull car to the pit garage, resulting in his withdrawal on the very first lap.
Post-race, Verstappen elaborated on his difficulties, revealing that he had noted engine issues even during the formation lap, meaning his inability to start properly was not entirely unexpected.
“The formation lap itself was quite problematic, and subsequently, the pre-start sequence was dreadful,” Verstappen conveyed to Sky Sports F1. “There was a distinct lack of reliability, and then the power unit simply gave out. I only regained minimal power after navigating the first turn, and the engine then produced a truly terrible noise. I couldn’t accelerate fully, so we had to retire the car, and that was the end of it.”
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Photo by: Alex Bierens de Haan / LAT Images via Getty Images
The Formula 1 circuit moves across national lines to Spain next week for the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, an event Verstappen anticipates will provide a significantly more accurate evaluation of Red Bull’s recent advancements and upgrades.
“This circuit is entirely distinct, making it an excellent opportunity to determine if we have genuinely achieved substantial progress, as it predominantly concerns high velocities and aerodynamic capabilities,” he further commented. “Therefore, that particular weekend should prove quite engaging.”
We want to hear from you!
Let us know what you would like to see from us in the future.
Take our survey
– The Autosport.com Team
