Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix: Verstappen Suspects Wing Configuration Hindered Pole Bid
The 2023 Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix saw a tight battle for pole position, with Lando Norris ultimately edging out reigning world champion Max Verstappen for the top spot. Despite a strong performance in qualifying, Verstappen believes that Red Bull’s choice of a more loaded wing configuration may have contributed to him missing out on pole.
Verstappen, who had earlier struggled with the handling of his RB20 in practice sessions, was relieved to find the car much more connected during qualifying. The Dutchman admitted that he made gains in the very high-speed corners, but suggested that the increased drag from the rear wing may have cost him the final few tenths to beat Norris.
“I think, in a way, probably that’s why we were not improving that much in the final few runs, because those corners are flat, so there’s nothing to gain. You just lose out a little bit with that, so maybe a bit too draggy for qualifying, looking back at it.”
Despite the setback, Verstappen remained optimistic about his chances in the race, though he acknowledged that the growing threat from McLaren and other rivals means Red Bull must respond with greater updates to maintain their competitiveness.
“These kind of tracks, I was hoping to be ahead, but the other teams are catching up. We’ve seen this already in the last few races, so it’s definitely a lot harder. We need to do everything perfect to be first, and we just need to bring more performance to the car.”
Verstappen will start Sunday’s race alongside Norris on the front row, with the battle for victory set to be closely contested given the high tyre degradation expected around the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
🔗 Source