‘Grumpy’ Verstappen awoken by surprise 7am 'pit stop'

©RedBull

Max Verstappen faced an unexpected start to his day at the Dutch Grand Prix on Friday when the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) paid him a visit at 7 a.m.

The reigning world champion was awakened in his motorhome at the Zandvoort circuit, just hours before the first practice session was set to begin.

According to Dutch publication De Telegraaf, WADA required a urine sample from the Red Bull driver.

But the unscheduled 'pit stop' was a bit of a laborious affair for Max, who was reportedly not pleased with the early morning interruption and only only able to provide the sample an hour later.

WADA’s visit was part of its standard procedure to conduct random doping tests across all sports, including Formula 1.

These tests are designed to ensure that all athletes comply with anti-doping regulations, and they can happen at any time without prior notice.

Read also: Verstappen complains Red Bull balance 'all over the place'

WADA's officials typically opt for early morning visits, as they believe it's the most effective time to obtain accurate samples when athletes are less likely to be dehydrated, which can affect test results.

Red Bull motorsport Helmut Marko confirmed the unexpected wake-up visit to Verstappen’s motorhome, noting that the Dutchman was "a bit grumpy" after being roused from his sleep.

"It is only a Friday, we should not make it bigger than it is,” said Marko. “People from such an agency often come early, because then it is easy to deliver a first pee..."

Despite the abrupt start to his day, Verstappen managed to refocus ahead of the first practice session as he set his sights on claiming a fourth consecutive victory at his home race.

The three-time world champion is also aiming for his first win since the Spanish Grand Prix, underscoring the importance of maintaining concentration and composure in the face of unexpected events.

Verstappen will start on the front row at Zandvoort, lining up alongside McLaren's Lando Norris, who secured pole position.

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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.