Verstappen sees opportunities: 'There is still plenty to be learned'

Max Verstappen had a difficult first day in Saudi Arabia. The Red Bull Racing driver had to let go his competitor Lewis Hamilton twice and had to settle for second and fourth positions. Nevertheless, Verstappen was satisfied.

The Dutchman had an excellent start in both the first and second free practice sessions but twice saw Hamilton improve his time. This meant he finished second in the first session. In the second free practice, Verstappen's time was less good. The driver set the fourth-fastest time and had to let Valtteri Bottas and Pierre Gasly pass him.

However, this did not cause Verstappen to panic. After the first day of racing, he announced on social media that he remains confident of a good result. "Really enjoyed the exciting Jeddah track today. We had a good start of the weekend, but there is still plenty to be learned," the world championship front-runner said.

Really enjoyed the exciting Jeddah track today. We had a good start of the weekend, but there is still plenty to be learned #KeepPushing #SaudiArabianGP pic.twitter.com/IcpKffEBSZ

— Max Verstappen (@Max33Verstappen) December 3, 2021

Verstappen has big weekend ahead

Verstappen has an eight-point lead over Hamilton and could win the world championship as early as this weekend. In order to do so the Dutchman will have to take first place, while Hamilton will have to drive a much lesser race. The most logical scenario, however, is for both drivers to decide the championship battle in Abu Dhabi.