Max Verstappen has a chance of a record-equalling 10th consecutive win at the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. However, the Red Bull driver does not believe he will win comfortably today.
Verstappen was not fastest in any session at Albert Park until Q3. In the three free practice sessions, he always had to settle for second place, while Charles Leclerc was on top on Friday and in FP3. In Q1 and Q2, Carlos Sainz's other Ferrari was fastest. Only in Q3 was Verstappen able to record the best lap time. With a time of 1:15.915, the Dutchman took first place on the Australian street circuit. He shares the front row of the grid with Sainz. Behind that, we find Lando Norris and Leclerc on the second row of the grid. Sergio Pérez qualified third, but received a grid penalty for obstructing Nico Hulkenberg in Q1. So Verstappen's teammate starts from sixth and shares the third row with local hero Oscar Piastri.
Also interesting: This is the final grid of the Australian Grand Prix
Fierce battle
“It's always great to see that. The crowd is always great,” Verstappen responds to cheers from the stands in the lead-up to the race in Melbourne. “What's also fun is the full race program during a weekend like this.” In addition to the Formula 1, Formula 2 and FIA Formula 3 championships, the Australian Supercars Championship and Porsche Carrera Cup Australia were also contested. “Of course I hope we will also have an exciting race.” When asked if this gives him additional motivation to be able to achieve his tenth consecutive win today, Verstappen replied: “Of course it will be a great number again, but we will do our best. I think it will be a difficult battle.” “Because Ferraris are powerful.”
