Verstappen Justifies Use Of Bodyguards For Mexico City Grand Prix

Saturday, 28 October 2023 at 04:00

Red Bull F1 driver Max Verstappen explained the use of his bodyguards at 2023 Mexico City Grand Prix.

After Red Bull Racing announced Max Verstappen will be accompanied by bodyguards ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix, the decision has been the main talking point of many conversations.

On the one hand, Christian Horner said Red Bull loves Mexico, the circuit Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, the atmosphere, and all the Mexican fans.

On the other hand, Horner did mention after the 2023 United States Grand Prix, he would not expect "the warmest reception" for Max Verstappen.

During the FIA press conference on Thursday ahead of the Grand Prix weekend in Mexico, Verstappen made sure to explain the bodyguards are not there because he would be in danger:

“"I have a bit more security here [than normal], but there are a few countries around the world where it is very busy."”

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As the Dutchman says, there are few countries and circuits around the world where it gets more busy for drivers to move around the paddock, and because of their tight schedules, they can't lose too much time.

“"Also here in the paddock, for example last year it was really busy to get to the garage and it just helps to make [the weekend] smoother on track, off track, and with travel from your hotel [and] stuff like that."”

The 26-year-old stated he feels "very safe" after a marketing day on Wednesday, throughout which he interacted with many Mexican fans.

“"I feel very safe. I mean yesterday (Wednesday) I had a whole marketing day and it’s been honestly a great reception here, like I’ve always had, and it’s just good to be back."”

The three-time World Champion won the Mexico City during the last two years, 2021 and 2022. He will be looking to continue his streak and score the third consecutive win in a row on Sunday.