Max Verstappen has yet to grace the podium at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, but he is looking forward to his third Canadian Grand Prix aiming to rectify that.
The Red Bull Racing driver enjoyed a great battle with Nico Rosberg during the 2016 event, and ultimately denied the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team racer fourth position with a good defensive drive.
One of Verstappen’s favourite parts of the circuit is the final chicane, where he did great work in his battle with Rosberg, and although he knows it is tricky to get right, it feels good when he gets it right.
“There is always a big crowd at the Canadian Grand Prix, especially at turns one and two and you can feel the atmosphere when you’re in the car,” said Verstappen. “The fans are really into motor racing which is always nice to see and I’m looking forward to experiencing that again.
“One of my favourite points on the track is also one of the trickiest and that’s the last chicane. You arrive at the braking point at very high speed and the brakes can be quite cold. It’s tricky to really nail this corner but I had a good battle with Nico there last year and it’s always good when you come out in front.”
Verstappen feels everyone will find the circuit more comfortable to drive this season with the extra grip levels in 2017, but any error can lead to damage and a ruined afternoon.
“There are also tight walls on the exit of the chicane and you should be careful not to brush these as it is easy to damage a wheel rim,” said Verstappen. “As usual the cars will run slightly less downforce in Canada so they will be a little looser under braking but we have more grip this year so it should be more comfortable for everyone compared to 2016.
