Max Verstappen has highlighted the battery deployment issues he faced during qualifying for the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit. Despite showing strong pace, the Red Bull driver had to settle for second as Lando Norris claimed his third pole of the 2026 season.
Verstappen admitted he was a top contender for pole but struggled with the track layout, especially the La Monumental corner, which he felt didn't suit the 2026 engines. "I wanted to go flat, but then my battery dies, so you have to lift, to have better deployment. That's my Monumental experience," he told media including Motorsport Week.
The Dutchman suggested the high-banking corner should have been designed the other way around: more banking initially, then flattening out. He believes that while it looks spectacular for the cameras, the battery drain makes it less challenging in F1 compared to other categories.
Despite the frustration, Verstappen praised the tarmac quality. "I like the grip, they did a good job with the tarmac, even though in some places it's a bit too bumpy already for a new track," he said. However, he pointed out the lack of overtaking opportunities due to braking zones that require steering input.
Verstappen stressed that track design can be improved and hopes for more driver input in the future. "I know they will always come back and say, yeah, but the space, but that's BS. There's always a way to find an overtaking opportunity," he concluded. Overall, he appreciated the event organization and the quick turnaround of the track, including simulator data.
Qualifying at Madring was a learning experience for Verstappen and Red Bull. With a layout that demands extra energy management, they need to find solutions for the race. Meanwhile, Norris's impressive performance puts him on pole, adding pressure on Verstappen in the championship battle.
Baca Juga
Lando Norris raih pole di kualifikasi F1 Spanyol 2026 di Madring, sementara Oscar Piastri dan George Russell tertinggal jauh. Simak analisis lengkapnya.
Max Verstappen mengkritik layout Madring usai kehabisan baterai di kualifikasi F1 Spanyol. Ia usul perubahan tikungan untuk balapan lebih baik.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli memprediksi degradasi ban jadi tantangan terbesar di GP Spanyol di sirkuit jalanan Madrid. Overtaking juga diprediksi sulit.
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