Max Verstappen acknowledges that the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is more difficult to win from pole position than his recent victory in Japan, but claims he gives it all to hold back McLaren behind him.
Two weeks ago at Suzuka, Verstappen produced excellent qualifying laps to secure pole position, officially winning the first race of the season in a race that didn’t get in the way of overtaking. The defending champion has repeated his tricks in a thrilling qualifying session in Jeddah, but he believes he is in a tough battle due to the high temperatures and increased opportunities.
“I’ve not been that confident up until now, but to be honest,” Verstappen said. “I mean, my long run compared to Oscars and Rand wasn’t particularly great, and certainly gives me everything I have.
“Does that mean I’m good enough? I don’t know, but the car definitely went a little further, compared to what we were testing yesterday, I hope it helps our tire life.
One aspect Verstappen believes he helped him to wedding Oscar Piastri in 0.01 seconds is the ranplan chosen by Red Bull, with Dutchman completing two runs after the red flag caused by Lando Norris’ crash in the third quarter.
“Obviously. “We made some small changes to the car, and they were obviously big enough to feel. I think that’s the story of our car. It can really hit and be like a miss. Of course, it’s competitive, but it’s much more difficult when you can’t do it right.
“But everything went well in the qualifying round. I think it’s always important to have a pretty good rhythm around here, so of course, it’s a pretty good rap. The tires are fortunate to continue doing that.
“Then the third quarter’s red flag isn’t ideal, but of course everyone has to deal with it. So we chose that two-lap strategy and we’re happy we did it.
“In the crash, of course, what that meant was that you had to change your approach and I wasn’t entirely sure what to do. At the end of the day the GP said, let’s burn fuel for two laps.
“Of course, we’re carrying a little more fuel, so the first timing lap is a little slower. I think that was the right call. Finally, it was definitely the right thing for me, at least with the feeling that I had in my car and had set the limits.”