Max Verstappen was very satisfied after qualifying for the first sprint race in the run-up to the Emilia Romagna F1 Grand Prix. The reigning world champion was fastest in the third qualifying leg ahead of Charles Leclerc’s Ferrari in P2 on the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari. With this, the Dutchman took his first pole position of the Formula 1 season 2022
Lando Norris was third in his McLaren. Sergio Perez, Max’ teammate at Oracle Red Bull Racing, drove his RB18 to P7. Qualifying, which started on a drying track, was frequently interrupted by red flags. In addition to the incidents that caused five interruptions, the rain also threw a spanner in the works. However, in the latter part of Q3, this was in favor of Verstappen, who was able to take the loot at the expense of rival Leclerc.
Times standings and differences after round 3 Formula 1 season 2022.
“It was difficult today”, says Max after qualifying. “With the rain, then dry, then rain again, it was very slippery and it was difficult to get the tires up to temperature, it was hectic, a long qualifying. I’m happy to be here. It’s a great track but it can also punish you if you make a mistake. That’s what we want. I am very happy with pole position.”
For a moment it looked like the Dutchman would run into problems in the latter part of qualifying. The moment Verstappen set his fastest time, Alfa Romeo driver Valtteri Bottas caused a yellow flag situation.
“When I saw the yellow flags for Valterri I immediately held back, so there won’t be any problems there, it will cost you lap time, but luckily the lap was still good enough for pole. Tomorrow it looks like it will be dry and we haven’t really driven much with these new cars on dry land here, so hopefully in FP2 we can understand the car a bit more in different conditions. †
Looking ahead to Saturday’s sprint race, Max continues: “Tomorrow will be different in terms of weather conditions, but this is a good start to the weekend.”