Nyck de Vries has opened up about how he is handling the pressure of fighting for his Formula 1 career this summer as the teams start considering driver contract renewals for 2024.
Since making his full-time F1 debut with AlphaTauri this year, de Vries has faced challenges with pace and consistency, leading to rumors that his position is under scrutiny and that Red Bull may make a decision on his future by the summer break.
While the speculation suggests that de Vries is on a deadline, the Dutch driver remained tight-lipped when asked about any indications of a deadline from Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko or AlphaTauri team principal Franz Tost.
Speaking to media, including PlanetF1.com, at the British Grand Prix, de Vries responded, “[It’s] business as usual.”
When asked about how he deals with the pressure away from the racetrack, de Vries revealed that he has turned to golf as a way to unwind.
“Pressure is relative,” he explained. “We all have responsibilities in life, and I might experience my pressure as intense, but so do you. I just love to spend time with family and friends, and in nature. Recently, I’ve been trying to pick up golf again because I can put all my frustration in the grass or the top of the ball!”
Despite the potential significance of the upcoming races for his F1 future, de Vries stated that he is not changing his approach.
“I think every day is about being the best version of myself and trying to perform as well as possible on track,” he said. “I always try to be the best I can be and do the best possible job.”
De Vries emphasized his dedication to the sport and his seriousness about his passion, stating that he is focused on both on-track and off-track performance.
While the pressure remains, de Vries aims to maintain his focus and continue striving for improvement as he navigates this crucial period in his Formula 1 career.
