Despite failed qualifying, Horner sees enough opportunities for Verstappen | GP Saudi Arabia

Mar 19, 2023 at 07:53Update: 6 minutes ago

Red Bull Racing team boss Christian Horner was impressed by Max Verstappen on Saturday despite his short appearance in qualifying. Verstappen retired with a broken drive shaft and will therefore start the race in Jeddah from fifteenth place on Sunday.

“We’re going to find out tonight what caused that problem,” Horner said on Viaplay’s camera. “It is very disappointing that something like this happens today. But on the other hand, it is better to happen now than tomorrow.”

Verstappen was lightning fast in the streets of Jeddah until his technical problems. The Dutchman had clocked the fastest time in all free practice sessions and was also by far the fastest in Q1, even though he only needed one lap to do so.

“With his one timed lap he would have even finished fourth in Q3,” said Horner. “His speed was insane. There are still plenty of chances for him tomorrow.”

Horner therefore expects Verstappen to be capable of something beautiful on Sunday. “The strategy will be important and there will undoubtedly be safety cars. It will be important that he stays out of trouble on the first lap. There is still plenty to fight for.”

Verstappen’s teammate Sergio Pérez took advantage of Verstappen’s retirement and took pole position for the second time in his career. The Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia starts on Sunday at 6 p.m. (Dutch time).

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