Verstappen Suspects Wing Configuration Cost Him Spanish GP Pole
Formula 1 News: Qualifying at the Spanish Grand Prix
Formula 1 today witnessed a thrilling qualifying session at the Spanish Grand Prix, where Lando Norris edged out Max Verstappen to claim pole position. The Red Bull driver suspects that his team’s decision to utilize a more loaded wing configuration may have contributed to his defeat.
Verstappen, who currently sits second in the Formula 1 standings, managed to improve his time on his final attempt but still fell short of Norris by 0.020 seconds. Despite overcoming his earlier troubles in practice, the Dutchman believes the choice of rear wing cost Red Bull valuable speed.
“The lap itself was good. I even got a tow down to Turn 1. I think, in general, when you look at it, the whole qualifying was just miles better than practice for me.”
Verstappen admitted that Red Bull’s latest defeat shows that the team must respond with greater updates to stay ahead of the competition.
“I think it’s been okay, but not good enough, clearly. These kind of tracks, I was hoping to be ahead, but the other teams are catching up.”
The reigning Formula 1 champion denied that McLaren’s growing threat will provide a “wake-up call” as he contends that Red Bull was already aware of its competitor’s gains prior to this round.
“In terms of wake-up call, I think we are pretty much very awake already with what’s happening, so yeah, we need to push on, we need to bring parts faster, better,” he said.
Verstappen conceded that he is in the dark about Red Bull’s long-run pace against its rivals but reckons that managing tyres will be a vital factor in tomorrow’s race.
“I would like to win tomorrow, naturally. I think it’s still a bit unknown where we are, like all of us, in terms of pure pace in the long runs.”
As the Formula 1 calendar moves forward, Verstappen and Red Bull will be looking to bounce back and reclaim their spot at the top of the leaderboard. Stay tuned for the latest Formula 1 news and updates.
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