As Formula One returns to Europe for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Max Verstappen is determined to regain his momentum and fend off his friend Lando Norris, who will be equipped with upgrades from McLaren in pursuit of his second career victory after his triumph in Miami.
Teams across the grid are set to introduce revised cars for the seventh race of the season, with Ferrari and Mercedes seeking to challenge Verstappen's dominance at the iconic Imola circuit nestled in Ferrari's Italian homeland.
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix also serves as a solemn occasion for Formula One, marking 30 years since the tragic weekend at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix where Roland Ratzenberger and Ayrton Senna lost their lives.
Alpine's Pierre Gasly will pay tribute to Senna with a yellow-hued helmet, while Sebastian Vettel will honor the Brazilian legend by driving his 1993 McLaren MP4/8 car during Sunday morning's events.
Despite the somber reflections, Verstappen remains focused on the task at hand, aiming to replicate Red Bull's previous success at Imola in 2022. As the championship enters a pivotal phase with six races scheduled over the next eight weeks, Verstappen emphasizes the importance of racing at classic circuits like Imola, known for its technical challenges and historic significance.
Meanwhile, Mercedes, still without a podium finish this season, acknowledges the need for continued improvement with a major upgrade package but acknowledges that it will take time before results are seen on track.
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