From an awkward start of the Austrian Grand Prix to P1 in Sprint Qualifying, Max Verstappen is a character full of surprises. He hit the kerb and pulled over on the pit straight, stopping the only free practice session for 5 minutes. Critics were ready to pounce, but Verstappen roared back onto the track like the Dutch lion he is! Meanwhile, Helmut Marko calls this encounter “lucky” as it happened in the early stages of the free practice session.

Red Bull’s advisor explained the FP1 situation, remarking, “In the first practice session, Max went straight on in Turn 1. And unfortunately went over those bumps with almost all four wheels, which knocked out a sensor that indicates oil pressure.” According to the reports, this was an ERS (Energy Recovery System) problem. Dr. Helmut Marko further said, “There was no oil pressure. As a result, you have to be cautious to possibly save the engine.” With a damaged power unit from Spain, Red Bull must face a 10-place penalty later in the season. “But then we were incredibly lucky that it happened exactly there at the front,” the 81-year-old added.

If it had happened mid-track, this “lucky” incident could’ve been a nightmare for Red Bull. “Because of that, he was able to roll back, they could push him out, we deactivated the sensor, and then we could continue.” This bizarre FP stoppage, right in its early stages, has kept the inevitable at bay for now. However, Verstappen and Red Bull must prepare themselves for the penalty.

Max Verstappen has made several comebacks on the track, not just in free practice sessions but also in main races. A standout moment in F1 history is his legendary comeback at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Max Verstappen is considerably the true King of comebacks

In 2018, despite a damaged car and a five-place grid penalty, the beast roared at the US Grand Prix. A surprising coincidence – Max had received the penalty because of excessive component usage! Starting from P18 he took advantage of the chaotic start. After several mind-blowing overtakes the young man, saw himself finish just 1.2 seconds behind Kimi Raikkonen. Max finished on the podium. Who could’ve predicted that the young 21-year-old would eventually become the true terror on the track?

Looking ahead Verstappen will strive to dominate the Sprint tomorrow. Despite a shaky power unit and two McLarens trailing behind him, it will be interesting to witness the Dutch’s strategy. At the same time, Max must try to avoid overusing his remaining resources, or else he’ll find himself behind the grid sooner than he could fathom! As the week rolls into the Spielberg, the Red Bull Ring is set for the Sprint. With speculations building on tomorrow’s results, the Austrian Grand Prix will be a spectacle.

Do you think Max Verstappen will hold on to his P1 till the end or will we get a new winner? Share your thoughts in the comments.