Max Verstappen drew attention after the qualifying session for the Miami Formula 1 GP by reporting unusual tire behavior. Despite difficulties, the four-time world champion managed to secure a place on the front row of the starting grid.
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The result gains even more weight given the context of the season, as the Red Bull Racing driver had not started so far forward until now. The performance contrasts with the uncertainties faced throughout the session.
Verstappen explained that he had significant fluctuations between tire sets during Q1, Q2, and Q3: “It was very strange. I had one set that worked, then another that didn’t. Q1 was good with used tires, in Q2 the first set was disastrous, then we put on a new one and it worked,” he said. He also highlighted that in Q3, the first stint was not ideal, but there was improvement on the next attempt.
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Despite the difficulties, the Dutch driver admitted surprise at the final result: “I didn’t expect that. I thought I wouldn’t see that again this season, it was unbelievable,” he said. According to him, the performance on Friday indicated a much more complicated scenario.
Verstappen also assessed that the final lap was decisive in achieving the prominent position: “If everyone had nailed their laps yesterday, I would only be seventh, but today we managed to put it all together,” he added, highlighting the efficiency in execution at the decisive moment.
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