Charles Leclerc achieved second place in qualifying for the American Grand Prix. Yet Max Verstappen will start from this position because of the grid penalties the Ferrari driver incurs for changing his combustion engine and turbo.

Leclerc had a strong Q1 and Q2. It was Verstappen who immediately had the fastest time of the entire qualifying session in Q3, but Leclerc quickly smashed that time again. Both Ferraris then improved. Sainz was even faster than his teammate again this time. Verstappen also improved, but failed to trump Sainz and Leclerc. As a result, he will start from second place on Sunday, which he gets 'gifted' by Leclerc's grid penalty.

'No risks'

Speaking immediately after qualifying, Leclerc spoke about how he experienced the session. "It is really difficult with the wind. The car changes lap after lap but overall I did my best. The last lap wasn’t the best. Carlos did a good job today. He deserves to be on pole. I am starting further back because of the penalty but the goal is to try and come back to thee front as quick as possible. We are starting 11th or 12th. No crazy risks. If there are opportunities I will take it."

Finally, the Monegasque was also asked to comment on the death of Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz: "It’s incredibly sad but apart from everything he has done in he’s career, which is incredible. He is an incredible human being and it’s a sad loss for motorsport. All my thoughts go to he’s family and friends."