The first Verstappen training session (FP1) was interrupted due to a sensor issue.
Red Bull acknowledged that Max Verstappen was very lucky to recover from the FP1 setback and secure pole position for the Austrian Grand Prix Sprint in Formula 1.
During the only training hour of the weekend, Verstappen had a sudden stop on the pit straight, forcing his Red Bull to be pushed back to the pit.
However, in a stunning turnaround, the Dutch driver quickly returned to the track and ended the session with the fastest lap time.
In the Sprint Qualifying, Verstappen surpassed McLaren’s Lando Norris to claim first place. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko admitted that luck played a significant role in his success.
Marko revealed that Red Bull was grateful that Verstappen’s car stopped with a deactivated oil pressure sensor on the finish straight of the Red Bull Ring.
“We are extremely pleased to have secured pole position,” Marko shared with Servus TV.
“During the first training session, Max went straight into Turn 1 and unfortunately hit some bumps that deactivated the oil pressure sensor. Theoretically, there was no oil pressure.
“To protect the engine, we had to shut it down. However, we were very lucky that this happened right in front of the pit. This allowed the car to be pushed out, the sensor was deactivated, and we only lost a few laps.”
Marko dismissed any concerns about a possible penalty for Verstappen when returning to the track during a subsequent red flag period, stating that their sporting director, Jonathan Wheatley, is well-versed in the rules and in communication with the stewards.
Furthermore, Marko emphasized that returning quickly is not possible.
Before the weekend, Marko was concerned about Red Bull’s ability to maintain its position as the leading team with the Sprint format, which includes only one practice session.
However, these concerns were alleviated as the RB20 showed competitive performance from the start, allowing Verstappen to surpass Norris by 0.093 seconds.
“This time, the car had good balance from the beginning,” expressed Marko his satisfaction.
“It’s no secret that in the last races we had to go through three practice and qualifying sessions to find the right balance.
“But this time, the car had good balance from the beginning, and it’s clear that Max did an exceptional lap.”
