Hadjar baffled by Red Bull's speed despite balance problems

Isack Hadjar said he could hardly believe Red Bull's pace in Mexico qualifying: his car felt poor over a lap because of balance problems, yet he was only four tenths off pole. He qualified seventh. Both Red Bull drivers showed front-running speed, although putting a lap together proved difficult.

Hadjar described opposite tyre problems in Turns 12 and 13: the rear tyres locked in Turn 12 and the fronts in Turn 13, hurting performance in corners where he wanted to push. He thought the balance had even taken a step backwards since Friday.

Hadjar also criticized his own final fast lap, saying he had not driven it well and calling it a disaster. He had expected a tow from Russell and thought Russell would let him through, but said Russell kept pushing and the lap became harder.

Even so, he called the car strong and fast and said Red Bull still needed to work on its balance.