Spanish GP: Max Verstappen Happy to Settle for Second After Hamilton’s Masterclass

The qualifying session for the Spanish Grand Prix concluded with Lewis Hamilton taking his 100th career pole. Alongside him on the front row is championship rival, Max Verstappen, with Valtteri Bottas in 3rd. After qualifying, the Dutchman spoke about his session and acknowledged that he is a little happy with 2nd.

He said, “It was good, struggled a little bit in Q1. We sorted the balance for Q2 because we’re pretty good. Q3 for me, the pole lap was pretty decent. Only the second run was a little bit worse for whatever reason.

“It was quite gusty out here, so the wind changed a lot. Nevertheless, 2nd for us here on this track was very good today. We know that they are hard to beat around here, but to be that close, I’m really happy with that.”

Obviously, the Red Bull driver would have loved to be on pole position. However, he acknowledged that there is a long run to the first corner, and he has to ensure that he has a good start. Verstappen also insisted that the pace is there, and he hopes to have a good race on Sunday.

Max Verstappen is looking forward to Sunday’s race

Moving to his plan of action for the race, Max Verstappen said that the corners are fast. In lieu of that, there is an emphasis laid on tyre management, since the tyres could overheat. On race day, the onus is on him and the team to make sure that they have good tyre management.

According to the Dutch driver, the Red Bull was a bit slow compared to Mercedes. This was because he had to make sure that the tyres lasted until the end of the final sector. All said and done, the Red Bull driver declared that the Circuit de Catalunya is a ‘proper track’, especially in low fuel runs.

READ MORE: Spanish GP: Lewis Hamilton Reveals Battling ‘Anxiety’ Before Spectacular 100th Pole Lap