Christian Horner has revealed that he predicts a “grandstand start” for Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.
Verstappen and Hamilton locked out the front row, finishing first and second in qualifying respectively. The history between the pair this season has been dramatic, and we can expect another banger of a start.
The US GP will see a steep uphill run towards Turn 1, which will allow for many racing lines to be taken before the corner. Verstappen and Hamilton could race into the turn, or even push the other out of Turn 1.
Horner revealed that he predicts a “grandstand start” for Verstappen and Hamilton, and gave his thoughts on the track the race will be run on.
“I think that it’s tough to follow here, so you definitely want to lead into Turn 1,” Horner told Sky, as quoted by motorsport.com.
“I think it’s going to be a grandstand start up there at Turn 1. At least we’ve got two guys starting at the front of the field.”
The Red Bull Team Principal reckoned that if Verstappen nails the starting bit, he can ride away from Hamilton in no time.
“I think it’s pretty tough to follow in these cars, so if we can get a clean sector one, you hope by the time you get to Turn 11 you’ve got that little bit of a gap.
“That’s going to be going to be crucial. If Max can see the yellow helmet of Sergio (Perez) in his mirrors, I think he’d be a lot happier with that.”
No rear-look
Pole sitter Verstappen was asked what he would do if Hamilton troubles him when the lights go out. He explained that he will not be looking behind, and will just focus on his race.
“I think we just have to focus on ourselves, try to do a good race and try to be as fast as we can,” he said.
“I’m not worried what happens behind me. I just have to focus on myself.”
Read more: Horner amused by Hamilton racing Verstappen during FP2 – “It’s like playground activity”