Red Bull Considers Banning Verstappen’s Late-Night Sim Racing

In an exclusive analysis for SPEEDWEEK.com, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, Dr. Helmut Marko, discussed various aspects of the team’s performance during the Hungarian Grand Prix, including a curious and controversial topic: Max Verstappen’s late-night sim racing.

Verstappen, known for his dedication both on the real track and in the virtual world, has recently faced criticism for his habit of participating in sim racing late into the night.

This practice came under scrutiny after Red Bull failed to secure pole position and finished in fifth place, an unusual outcome for the world champion.

Marko explained:

“Max Verstappen was rather irritable this weekend, and it didn’t take long for criticism to arise – no wonder, considering he played sim racing for half the night.”

Marko highlighted that while Verstappen has a different sleep rhythm and has proven he can perform at a high level even after a night of sim racing, the team has decided it is best to avoid such activities late at night.

He added:

“In Imola, after a sim racing session, he also went to bed at three in the morning – and then won the Grand Prix. Max has a different sleep rhythm, and he had his seven hours of sleep. His sim racing session during the Hungarian weekend late at night happened only because a driver in his team dropped out. However, we have agreed that he will no longer do simulations so late.”

The decision to limit Verstappen’s late-night sim racing is made in an effort to maintain a more balanced approach and ensure the driver is in the best possible condition for races. This adjustment in his routine is part of Red Bull’s ongoing efforts to optimize the team’s performance in a competitive season.

With the championship still in play and Verstappen leading the drivers’ standings, every detail matters. The upcoming race in Belgium, one of Verstappen’s favorite tracks, will be crucial for maintaining his lead and continuing the fight for both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles.

Max Verstappen Wins the Virtual 24 Hours of Nürburgring and the Imola GP 2024

At BoxThisLap.org, we believe that sim racing is the ultimate hobby, providing unparalleled opportunities for racing enthusiasts to hone their skills and achieve their dreams. Dr. Helmut Marko’s recent comments about limiting Max Verstappen’s late-night sim racing sessions are disheartening and could potentially harm our passion.

While we understand that late-night hours can sometimes cause issues, we feel that it doesn’t need to go beyond that.

Many drivers have had the chance to fulfill their dreams thanks to sim racing, and it remains a vital platform for aspiring racers to demonstrate their talent and dedication.

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See you on the virtual track!