A low risk lap at Monaco? Forget it, says Max Verstappen

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Max Verstappen is gearing up for Formula 1's crown jewel, the Monaco Grand Prix, which will be a 'home race' for the Dutch teenager like for many of his colleagues.

Nelson Piquet once famously described racing in the streets of Monte-Carlo as "riding a bicycle in an apartment."

Few are those who have never been caught out by the ever-present traps and perils hidden around the Principality. And Max Verstappen is no exception, having fallen victim to the track's pitfalls on each of his visits there.

"There is no such thing as a low risk lap in Monaco, it doesn’t exist if you want to be fast because you have to be on the limit," insists Max.

"Last year’s crash was very unfortunate but it doesn’t affect my confidence heading back there, it just makes me want to do better this year and learn from my mistakes.

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Racing F1's new-spec wider cars on the narrow streets of Monaco will add another challenge to the already difficult task ahead.

"We still have a lot to learn from the car in terms of setup as it is always developing and we haven’t driven it on a tight street circuit yet," adds the 19-year-old.

"Preparation for Monaco is a little different, you definitely build up a little bit slower throughout the weekend and pace yourself.

"It’s important to find the limit carefully. With the new cars I think the chicane around the swimming pool will be the most challenging corner this year."

For all the difficulties it throws a drivers' way, Monte-Carlo is still however the place to be for Verstappen away from F1.

"I have been living in Monaco for just over a year now and really enjoyed every minute of it.

"I have a good crew of friends which means we always have plenty of fun. It is also nice being able to train in the Mediterranean sun, and experience the nightlife... in the off season."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.