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“It shows we are struggling a bit more than normal”: Max Verstappen explains stark difference against Lewis Hamilton in Qatar GP qualifying

Somin Bhattacharjee
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"I don't expect any presents from the stewards": Max Verstappen says he was not surprised to be awarded a 5-place grid penalty at the Qatar GP

Max Verstappen feels that Red Bull are behind the Mercedes cars in terms of performance after a disappointing Qualifying session in Qatar. 

The Milton-Keynes team looked far off Mercedes’ pace at the Losail International Circuit. Verstappen tried his best but could not match Lewis Hamilton’s time as the Briton took pole position in the first-ever Qatar GP. He will start from 2nd place behind Hamilton.

On the other hand, his teammate Sergio Perez had a very forgettable evening in the desert. The Mexican failed to make it into Q3 and will start the race from 11th. This gives Mercedes an undue advantage to strengthen their lead over Red Bull in the Constructor’s standings.

“Checo was not even in Q3, so it definitely shows we are struggling a bit more than normal.” said Verstappen in the post-session interview. “But nevertheless, it’s still second, so it’s all to play for.”

Also read: Max Verstappen believes that the Silver Arrows are being overly aggressive towards Red Bull lately

Max Verstappen wishes they could have pushed Mercedes further

Verstappen admitted that it’s not going to plan for Red Bull in this new circuit. He has been lacking pace all weekend, and his 14 point lead over Hamilton in the standings looks very vulnerable.

Verstappen is not writing his chances off for Sunday’s race. However, he wishes the team had pushed the Silver Arrows a bit more. “I wish we could have fought for more,” said the Dutchman.

Before Saturday’s session, Red Bull’s advisor Helmut Marko said that the goal for the session was to start pole or P3. Unfortunately for the team, Max will have to take the inside line into turn one. Hamilton’s teammate Valtteri Bottas finished behind the Championship rivals and will be starting from third.

It is going to be an exciting battle in the first lap tomorrow. Overtaking is not expected to be easy in this circuit, so Verstappen will have to get off to a stellar start to jump Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes.

Also read: McLaren team principal is not happy with how FIA let Max Verstappen go unpunished

About the author

Somin Bhattacharjee

Somin Bhattacharjee

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Formula 1 Editor Somin Bhattacharjee fell for the sport as well as Fernando Alonso on the same day — during the Spaniard’s thrilling victory at the German GP in 2010. Over the years, the passion magnified manyfold, and metamorphosed into a writing career in 2021. Though holding a bachelor's degree in marketing, Somin discovered his true calling in writing. He has penned over 2,700 articles for TheSportsRush, presenting a diverse range — news reports, opinions, and exclusives. A true Tiffosi, Somin never gives up on a chance to defend the Ferrari boys as a fan. As a sports writer though, he remains objective to the core and relishes opportunities to follow and engage in dissecting the action during races. That’s where the real thrill lies for him. Beyond the racetrack, Somin plays different sports including soccer. He enjoys exploring other sporting events and proudly supports Spanish soccer club Real Madrid.

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