Max Verstappen has admitted he is struggling to come to terms with his history making Spanish Grand Prix victory.
The 18-year-old became the youngest ever winner of a Formula 1 race following a remarkable drive in Barcelona, which saw him fend off former world champion Kimi Raikkonen for victory.
Only promoted to the Red Bull team from Toro Rosso prior to the weekend’s race, Verstappen quickly adapted to the RB12 chassis and showed maturity beyond his years in a pressure-filled race.
A two-stop strategy proved key as Verstappen managed to nurse a set of worn tyres for the second half of the race, while facing extreme pressure from fellow two-stopper Raikkonen.
“It’s amazing, I couldn’t believe I was leading,” said Verstappen.
“It’s a very big surprise, I didn’t expect that. Unbelievable, I can’t believe it.
“I was targeting a podium but to win straight away is an amazing feeling.
“In the last laps I got a bit of cramp – I was getting very excited, I couldn’t believe it.
“I was looking at the pitboard, saw my name with 10 laps to go, then started to watch the board.
“I was thinking ‘don’t look at it, focus on the tyres and bring it home’.
“It’s a great feeling. I absolutely didn’t expect this.”
Red Bull boss Christian Horner was equally surprised by Verstappen’s achievement in only his first race for the team.
“He’s the youngest Grand Prix winner now, which is an unbelievable achievement – we’re still in shock,” Horner explained to Sky Sports F1.
“It’s a dream debut.
“To soak up that pressure at such a young age is hugely impressive.”
The victory proved to be an emotional moment for Verstappen’s father Jos Verstappen, who contested 106 F1 starts during a lengthy career.
“I’m very proud. We did a lot together. I was so happy when I heard the phone call, to move over to Red Bull, and I knew there would be a lot more opportunities,” said Verstappen Sr.
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