Verstappen puts a good start ahead of attacking Antonelli in Austin

Ahead of the United States Grand Prix, Max Verstappen said Red Bull’s priority was to make a good start rather than focus on attacking Kimi Antonelli. Verstappen qualified second, just under two tenths behind the Mercedes driver, and said it mattered less whether he started on the inside or outside than adapting to the situation.

Verstappen was not fully satisfied with qualifying. He said the wind strengthened on the final lap and everyone had some trouble in the last sector; he also said his first Q3 lap lacked the grip he had in Q2. He could not explain why the session had not come together, but said second place was acceptable.

He also said a few things involving the engine were not ideal before the start and that the team was working to improve them in Austin. Verstappen has two new sets of soft tyres and hopes they will help in the race.