Verstappen: “I don’t like ovals, they are too dangerous” | FormulaPassion.it

Formula 1 is now ready to face the weekend of United States Grand Prix, in a mother country of car categories very followed and appreciated by the stars and stripes like NASCAR or IndyCar. Among the main features of these series is the presence in the calendar of numerous tests on oval circuits, among which the event of excellence of the Indianapolis 500 stands out. An environment that also arouses the interest of some drivers involved in the Formula 1 world championship; recently, for example, Lewis Hamilton himself had the opportunity to underline his passion for North American racing.

Those who do not like some of the characteristics of these categories are the greatest rival of the British during this season, Max Verstappen. Interviewed by NBC Sports on the eve of the Austin round, the Dutch Red Bull underlined his incompatibility with the ovals, considered too dangerous by the current world championship leader: “I love following IndyCar – commented number 33 – it is certainly different from Formula 1, but it is still very nice and interesting to follow ”.

“I’m happy to be part of the Circus anyway, also because I’m not a big fan of ovals. Classic and city circuits are welcome but, on principle, I don’t have a particular feeling with this type of track, also because the risk of getting involved in a bad accident is quite high. There’s this danger in F1 too, of course, but it’s certainly no fun hitting the wall at around 200 miles. This risk is greater in IndyCar and if you were to bump into someone and then hit the barriers, history is full of examples of episodes that didn’t end well or that turned into serious injuries. Consequentially – he added – I like looking at it and I have great respect for the riders participating in this category, but I’m fine where I am ”.

Regarding the relationship between Formula 1 and IndyCar, with many European school drivers making their debut in the United States – such as Romain Grosjean or soon Christian Lundgaard, not counting the tests it will carry out Nico Hulkenberg with the Arrow McLaren SP – Verstappen himself explained the reason for these numerous transfers on American soil: “Some want to put a lot of effort into seeking success in the United States, like Rinus VeeKay did – he analyzed – because they want to focus on this goal to be able to do it. After all, IndyCar is American Formula 1. Sometimes, however, it is a question of whether or not to participate in F1, since there is not always a seat available. Consequently, IndyCar is a great alternative to be able to compete at high levels on big tracks and with big teams. So, I understand the move of some drivers who take the opportunity to compete in the USA or in Formula E, where the speeds are high and the races are very competitive. Here because – he concluded – some guys in Formula 2, not seeing the opportunity to make their debut in Formula 1, opt for IndyCar ”.