Max Verstappen is heading half way around the world for his first Australian Grand Prix since joining Red Bull Racing.
This time 12 months ago, Verstappen was still part of the Toro Rosso driver line-up. It was another two months before he was upgraded to the senior team
Now the 19-year-old is keenly aware that the spotlight is firmly upon him in the 2017 season opener. Unsurprisingly he wants to get off to the best start he can.
“We always arrive in Australia a bit early due to the time difference," he said this week. "This way we have a bit longer to acclimatise."
"The first two or three days you struggle with jet lag a bit. But then it's fine because you are just really excited for the first race of the year.
“The first race is always exciting as you never really know where you are in terms of performance with the car because everything is so new.
"This is reflected in the paddock too. It’s a refreshing feeling.
"I can’t wait to feel the buzz of all the cars going out for the first practice and seeing the excitement on everyone’s face."
His team mate Daniel Ricciardo will be the star of the weekend as far as local media and fans are concerned. In some ways that helps take some of the pressure off Verstappen.
“Being Daniel’s home Grand Prix he obviously gets a lot of support which is very nice for him," Verstappen said.
“I enjoy going to Melbourne as it’s a cool city, nice environment and good weather so generally a great place to stay.
"I found some nice restaurants down by the Yarra River so whenever we have time I will head down there for some dinner."
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