The race weekend of Max Verstappen only started during FP2, according to him. During the first free practice the Dutchman recorded the least number of laps of all drivers. However, in FP2 he was back and was P2 when the session ended.
Verstappen in the garage
Problems with the RB16 caused Verstappen to lose lots of time in FP1, driving just 18 laps. After the session Verstappen told Ziggo Sport: "We have had quite a few failures or problems here. The asphalt is very rough and there is very little grip, which is partly due to the sand."
Messy first session
Verstappen adds: "We had some things on the car that didn't work or didn't do what they were supposed to do. That's why we didn't drive much. It's a bit of a shame of course. For me it actually only started at the second practice session."