Max Verstappen to Adjust Late-Night Sim Racing Habits After Hungarian GP Criticism, Confirms Helmut Marko

Max Verstappen changes his approach to engaging in simulator racing late at night ahead of F1 events following the Hungary race. "However, we've come to a mutual decision that moving forward, he will avoid participating in simulations too late into the night."

Helmut Marko has stated that Max Verstappen has committed to not participating in sim racing activities late into the night following critiques that surfaced during the F1 Hungarian Grand Prix.

Verstappen participated in the 24 Hours of Spa event, representing Team Redline and competing until 3am.

He played a pivotal role in leading his team to yet another win, however, this success wasn't replicated on the F1 circuit.

Verstappen's showing was disappointing, marked by two failed attempts to pass Lewis Hamilton.

The driver from the Netherlands expressed significant frustration through the team's radio communication, venting about both the race strategy and the car's performance.

Nico Rosberg, alongside Sky Sports F1 analyst David Croft, implied that Verstappen's insufficient rest due to staying up late could have negatively impacted his performance.

Nonetheless, after the event, Marko minimized its significance, pointing out that Verstappen had also stayed up late during the Imola weekend, yet delivered an exceptional performance to outclass Lando Norris.

Marko has disclosed an agreement with Verstappen to not participate in races "that late anymore."

"Over the weekend, Max Verstappen appeared to be quite sensitive, which quickly led to some backlash. It's hardly surprising, given that he dedicates a significant portion of his night to sim racing," Marko commented to SpeedWeek.

"It's worth noting that in Imola, following a session of simracing, he didn't hit the sack until 3 a.m. – and still managed to clinch the grand prix victory. Max operates on a unique sleep schedule, ensuring he gets his seven hours of rest."

"His unexpected simulation session during the Hungary weekend was a result of one of his team's drivers being unable to participate. However, we've come to the understanding that going forward, he will not engage in simulations at such late hours."

As we approach the Belgian Grand Prix this weekend, Verstappen leads Norris by 76 points, having won the race three times in a row.

The driver from the Netherlands might have to begin the race from a less advantageous position on the grid due to Red Bull potentially needing to replace his engine.

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