Rosberg: 'They know Verstappen can't handle Hamilton in qualifying'

Lewis Hamilton is particularly strong over one lap in Abu Dhabi. Max Verstappen came no closer than two tenths to his rival's time. Former world champion Nico Rosberg believes that Red Bull have already given up on qualifying and that P2 is the maximum achievable.

No chance for Verstappen to beat Hamilton

The final battle in the tense 2021 title race is about to begin. Verstappen needs a strong qualifying session to take his first title. Things are not looking good for the Dutchman after Saturday morning. Hamilton is blazing fast and according to Rosberg there is no way Red Bull can beat the Brit in qualifying.

Speaking to Sky F1, Rosberg said Hamilton is in the shape of his life, but with two tenths it could still be a close fight. The former Mercedes driver does question Red Bull and the work being done on Verstappen's rear wing. The German said: "Red Bull is giving up on qualifying."

Red Bull recognizes that they cannot beat Hamilton and expect a P2 on Saturday afternoon. Rosberg, in fact, saw Verstappen make his test start on the left side of the track with the soft tire. The analyst fantasizes about a different strategy from the Dutchman. "Maybe he's playing mind games; starting on the soft tire and bombing it on the inside."