Formula 1 fans will have noticed that Max Verstappen had a radio issue during the Singapore Grand Prix, and he later revealed it has been a season-long problem.
The Dutchman stormed to his first-ever victory in Singapore last Sunday, his second win in as many races, elevating him up to fourth in the Drivers’ Championship.
Verstappen saw off the fast-starting Charles Leclerc at ‘lights out’ to maintain his advantage, and hold it despite a Virtual Safety Car midway through the race.
It was at that stage, however, where it became apparent to television viewers that all was not well with the Red Bull’s car-to-pit radio system.
Verstappen’s race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, was heard trying to communicate with Verstappen, but could not get a clear response, forcing him to use code when discussing a potential Safety Car.
“Max, under a Safety Car, we would lose position to Leclerc but I’m worried about restarting on this tyre set,” he said.
Verstappen’s response was muffled and inaudible, but Lambiase remained calm and composed.
“If you would accept pitting behind Leclerc, say nothing. If you don’t want to pit, key up on the radio – try to say something.”
The message was met with silence, indicating the former. But the Safety Car never came, and Verstappen was able to continue his quest to the chequered flag.
After the race, Verstappen was able to make a joke of the situation, wondering if Lambiase, affectionately known as ‘GP’, was pleased to hear no answers back for once.
“Yeah, maybe he was happy here that it was not working!” he said.
Verstappen added: “I couldn’t really say anything. Yeah, he did try at one point to ask me a few things in code, and I think he understood well what I meant or did not do, right?
“But it’s never nice. But I’m having already the whole season difficulty with my radio, and this weekend has been particularly bad.”
After crossing the line to win, Lambiase attempted further communication with Verstappen, but again, found it hard to hear him coherently.
“Sorry, Max, radio is extremely poor,” he said.
“I’m happy! Happy!” Verstappen replied, being just about audible.
“Understood – you are happy,” came the deadpan reply.
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