Max Verstappen says Red Bull can play deciding role in world title fight at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with ‘a bit of luck’
Max Verstappen believes Red Bull need luck on their side to get in between the two Mercedes at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and play any part in deciding the world title.
Nico Rosberg leads team-mate Lewis Hamilton by 12 points going into the final race of 2016, knowing that a third-place finish will be sufficient for a first drivers’ crown even if Hamilton wins.
Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo have proved the closest challengers to the Mercedes duo this season.
Verstappen said: “In the wet, it is easier for us to be in between, in the dry we need a bit of luck as well to get in between them.”
The 19-year-old Dutchman is finishing the season on the crest of a wave after a blistering drive from 16th to third at the preceding race, the Brazilian Grand Prix.
However, his aggressive driving style had been criticised, most notably by four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel.
But Verstappen insisted he was unfazed and said: “I am always focusing on myself, trying to do the best possible result and race, and that is how it goes. I don’t care about other opinions.”
