Red Bull Racing's Max Verstappen has hinted that the famous Pouhon corner at the Spa-Francorchamps Formula 1 circuit could be taken flat-out in the RB15 this season.
The final part of qualifying for the 2018 running of the Belgian Grand Prix was spoilt by inclement weather, but Dutchman felt it was close to being full throttle if the track was dry.
Despite the technical regulation changes in 2019, laptime records are still being broken, suggesting Verstappen's prediction could be proved correct.
"Spa is my favourite circuit on the calendar, so a great one to start the second half of the season with. There are a lot of long straights and it’s always a good challenge to find the best possible compromise for the straights and the corners.
"You don’t particularly run a lot of downforce at Spa but the fast corners are very impressive and a lot of fun.
"Pouhon was close to flat last year so it will be good to see what we can do there in the RB15. I also like that there aren’t too many slow-speed corners and you can keep up the momentum all the way around the track."
Verstappen is also buoyed by recent chassis updates to the car as well as improvements from power unit supplier Honda.
He will also be joined by new team-mate Alexander Albon from Toro Rosso with Pierre Gasly moving in the opposite direction.
"I’m definitely ready to get back in the car and looking forward to seeing how competitive the second half of the season can be for us."
