Max Verstappen managed to secure an impressive front-row start for the Mexico City GP despite a challenging weekend plagued by engine issues and limited track time. The Dutchman’s Red Bull faced mechanical problems from the outset, restricting him to just 18 laps across Friday’s practice sessions. This lack of data left Verstappen uncertain about his car’s competitiveness, but he delivered in qualifying to edge out title rival Lando Norris and land P2 on the grid, just behind Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz.
“I did four laps [in practice],” Verstappen explained, describing Friday as “a complete write-off, no information.” Heading into FP3, he pushed to gather as much data as possible, making crucial adjustments that allowed him to feel slightly more confident in his RB20. “But to be in the front row, it’s an incredible result for us,” he admitted, recognizing the team’s calm approach in the face of adversity as key to his recovery.
Verstappen’s strong qualifying session wasn’t without its challenges. His first Q3 lap was deleted after a small error at Turn 2, forcing him to be more cautious on his final run. “I was probably a little bit more careful in Turn 2 and 3… but at least the lap counted,” he explained.
Despite his solid grid position, Verstappen remains cautious about race day, noting the unpredictability of Red Bull’s long-run pace due to his limited practice time. “I don’t expect miracles,” he admitted. “Ferrari was really, really fast in Austin… I guess we’ll find out tomorrow.” Holding a 55-point lead in the championship, Verstappen’s focus is on a smooth race, where he’ll be keenly observing how his car holds up over the long stints amid Mexico’s unique track conditions.
