P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen explains impact of first day with stand-in F1 race engineer
Max Verstappen quickly formed a strong bond with stand-in race engineer Simon Rennie during practice for the Austrian Grand Prix in the absence of Gianpiero Lambiase. Rennie, Red Bull’s simulator chief, stepped in for the first time in Verstappen’s F1 career without Lambiase, who couldn’t be present due to personal reasons. Verstappen praised Rennie’s experience and ease in adapting to the role during the practice sessions. Rennie had previously worked with drivers like Alex Albon and Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull and had a successful stint at Renault/Lotus with champions Alonso and Raikkonen. Verstappen reported positive collaboration with Rennie, acknowledging his familiarity from the simulator and his rapid adjustment to the race engineer role. Despite ending Friday’s second practice session in third place, Verstappen noted an overall lack of pace and heavy understeer on the car, requiring improvements. Rennie’s expertise and adaptation to the role were highlighted by Verstappen, emphasizing their effective collaboration at the Red Bull Ring.
