SEPANG: Max Verstappen is drawing inspiration from the past as he bids to make the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia a memorable one.
And the 29-year-old is hoping the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) will provide the spark for his first win of the season as he returns to the track where he triumphed in the last Formula One race held in Malaysia nine years ago.
The Red Bull driver admitted he was slightly disoriented when he returned to the SIC paddock for the Bahrain GP, but promised to get a grip of the track’s 15 corners in today’s practice sessions.
"I had no idea where I was supposed to go, it’s been a long time," said Verstappen.
"But I always enjoyed racing here. I like the track layout, and it’s not very straightforward because there’s high degradation and it's quite hot in general, and it’s quite uncomfortable to drive, physically."
The four-time world champion has only stepped on the podium seven times this season, coming close to clinching the top spot in the last two races in Madrid and Baku last weekend.
Verstappen came in behind both Mercedes drivers, Kimi Antonelli and George Russell in Spain and Azerbaijan, respectively, but hopes Malaysia would see him get a win.
"Unfortunately, we’re not as quick as Mercedes this season; they are the fast ones, at least for most part of the season.
"I’m trying everything I can, we are scoring podiums.
"But I want a win; that’s what I’m here for now. I’m getting close but I want to at least win one race this year.
"I hope we can do it at some point. We have had some solid results," he said.
At the same time, Verstappen offered advice for new drivers who are preparing to hit the track, especially with the Malaysian climate always playing a big role for the race weekend.
"It’s hot, but it’s also hot in Monaco. It gets very humid there as well.
"But that’s the case for everyone. It’s hot, sweaty, and you need a few more extra pairs of underwear, I guess, and just go with the flow."
