Christian Horner can look back with satisfaction on qualifying in Jeddah. Although the technical problems on Max Verstappen’s side are quite frustrating according to the team boss, he is happy that it happened during qualifying. In addition, Sergio Pérez’s pole position also makes up for a lot.
Prior to qualifying on the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, Verstappen was the strong favorite for pole position. However, the Dutchman had to leave the field early, having to deal with technical problems in Q2. As a result, he had to settle for fifteenth on the grid. In the end, Pérez was able to take full advantage of the problems on Verstappen’s side and took the second pole position of his career.
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Team boss Christian Horner is very pleased with the performance of the Mexican. “First of all, it’s fantastic for Checo,” Horner tells via play. “To take his second pole, one year after his first pole on this track. It was a great lap from him in Q3. His first lap was good enough in the end, so he starts in the best possible place. Fernando will be hard with him racing, but it’s great to get that pole.”
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Problems with the drive shaft
Speaking of the problems on Verstappen’s side, the Briton has this to say: “It looks like a problem with the driveshaft. We need to find out what caused that problem and of course we have to make sure we address it. It’s obviously hugely frustrating that it happened today. But of course I’d rather it happened today than tomorrow.”
“His speed was really unbelievable,” continues Horner. “His one lap would have been good enough for fourth on the grid.” Asked if Verstappen has a chance to move further forward on Sunday, Horner replies: “Absolutely, there are still opportunities tomorrow. I think it will be about strategies, safety cars and staying out of trouble on the first lap. So everything is still open,” concludes the team boss.
