After the free practice sessions and qualifying, only the main menu is left on the program in Saudi Arabia: the Grand Prix itself. From pole position, Max Verstappen will hunt for his ninth victory in a row, and his 56th Grand Prix victory in total. As so often, the Dutchman is joined by Charles Leclerc in the front row. The Monegasque has not won a race for almost two years.
The race is held under artificial lights in Saudi Arabia. The starting lights will go out at 8:00 PM local time, after which Verstappen will lead the field in a warm-up lap. In the Netherlands, due to the two-hour time difference, this start takes place at 6:00 PM. About three minutes after the start of the warm-up lap, the drivers return to their starting grid on the Jeddah Corniche Circuit to prepare for fifty high-speed laps.
The race is one of the fastest races on the calendar due to its high average speed. The finish can be expected before 7:30 PM Dutch time, unless there are interruptions in the form of red flags or Safety Cars. On the fastest street circuit in the world this is a very good possibility, and then the finish flag can be waved later in the evening. In any case, the organization knows that the event is over before the start of Ramadan: it starts on Sunday, March 10, and so the entire weekend was moved forward one day.
DRS games expected
Verstappen will try to disappear over the horizon from pole position, and can rely on his excellent racing speed. Drivers who become involved in exciting duels will keep a close eye on the DRS zones and DRS lines. In 2021, Lewis Hamilton and Verstappen already played games around these DRS lines, and in 2022 this was also the case between Leclerc and Verstappen. These games could potentially contribute to dangerous situations, which midfielders and newcomer Oliver Bearman hope to take advantage of.
Don’t miss anything from Verstappen in 2024? Then take out a discounted subscription with Viaplay, or view all options here.
Will Verstappen take victory in Saudi Arabia? Get twice your stake back at Jacks. For new players, 24+. Read the terms and conditions.
