Max Verstappen may claim pole position for the Japanese Grand Prix this afternoon (3pm AEST), but the Red Bull driver is uncertain about his team’s race pace.
With teammate Sergio Perez securing the front row, Red Bull is in a favorable position to take advantage in Suzuka. However, Ferrari and McLaren have shown strong race pace during practice, adding some uncertainty to the race.
This could lead to an exciting Sunday of racing, with a chance of rain, although the forecast has been improving in that regard.
Verstappen expressed his concerns about his long runs after qualifying, stating, “The pace wasn’t what I would have liked. So there’s a bit of a question mark going into [the race] because looking at the long runs, especially Ferrari, they looked very comfortable.”
“Maybe they were not as quick over one lap, but they appeared fast in the long runs, so we’ll have to wait and see how that plays out in the race,” he added. “McLaren is also quite strong. I’m just not satisfied with my own performance on the long run, so naturally, everyone else seems a bit better.”
Australia’s Oscar Piastri in sixth place could benefit from the promising race pace, while Daniel Ricciardo will aim to climb the ranks from 11th place on the grid and secure points.
Logan Sargeant crashes out in Japan | 00:50
STARTING GRID: Top 10
1. Max Verstappen, Red Bull
2. Sergio Perez, Red Bull
3. Lando Norris, McLaren
4. Carlos Sainz, Ferrari
5. Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin
6. Oscar Piastri, McLaren
7. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes
8. Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
9. George Russell, Mercedes
10. Yuki Tsunoda, RB
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