Max Verstappen’s Nightmarish Qualifying in Singapore
The Dutch driver was eliminated in the second qualifying session. The Red Bull driver may even be penalized on the starting grid for impeding Yuki Tsunoda.
He is still in first place. But, this time, not as he is used to. Max Verstappen, for this Singapore Grand Prix, was the first to be eliminated in the second qualifying session.
Struggling throughout the weekend, the Dutch driver couldn’t find any solutions during the quick lap exercise. After a mediocre first time in Q2, he only slightly improved his time in his second attempt. The improvement was so minimal that Liam Lawson managed to push the two-time world champion out of the top 10.
A first since 2018
The Red Bull driver is only credited with the 11th time. However, this might not be his position on the starting grid. Earlier in the session, he impeded Yuki Tsunoda, who was on a fast lap and had to abandon his effort. During Q1, he notably blocked the two Mercedes drivers in the pit lane. Investigations should be opened by the FIA to potentially penalize him. The stewards could give him grid penalties.
It would then appear complicated for Max Verstappen to achieve an 11th consecutive victory this Sunday, September 17th. Especially since he has never been successful on this urban track.
Sergio Perez was also eliminated in Q2. This is the first time since the 2018 Russian Grand Prix that Red Bull has not been present in the final phase of qualifying.
