1 Max’s virtual insanity
It’s not uncommon for NASCAR drivers to participate in two races in one weekend (or the occasional post-race punch-up). It’s also been known for racers to cross disciplines and start the Indianapolis 500 in the afternoon and jump on a jet to compete in the Coca-Cola 600 later in the day. But it’s rare indeed for F1 drivers to submit to what might be viewed as “distractions” – unless, of course, they’re at the top of their game in their primary job.
When Max Verstappen crossed the finish line to win the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix with McLaren’s Lando Norris in his wheeltracks, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner congratulated Max for his second triumph of the weekend. The previous evening – and on race day morning – Verstappen was at the wheel of his simulator rig, sharing the driving duties with his three Team Redline team-mates, to win the virtual Nürburgring 24 Hours.
While this might seem a peculiar and potentially focus-sapping endeavour during a GP weekend, it demonstrates how much Verstappen loves racing. And the fact that he was allowed to do it indicates how much power he holds within the organisation. Beyond leisure pursuits, though, the use of a simulator was central to
