Verstappen on strategy: 'Want to start on mediums'

Max Verstappen is looking forward to qualifying and thinks a pole position is no longer out of the question for the United States Grand Prix. The Dutchman's team has made great strides over the last 24 hours, as the difference in performance of the RB16B between the second and third free practice was considerable.

"The feeling is better, yes," said Verstappen for the Ziggo Sport camera. The Dutchman originally set the fastest time, but he also had to hand it back after exceeding the track limits. "I went just a bit too wide there, but overall we still have some speed left. It just remains to be seen how strong Mercedes are and how much they have left with the engine."

Mediums in Q2

In Q2, Verstappen will be hoping to progress to the final session on mediums, as tyre degradation is high. Starting on the softs Sunday is therefore not preferred."We hope so, we'll see. I think you always want to start on the mediums, so there will definitely be people who will try that."

Sergio Perez was the fastest in FP2 and FP3 according to the official timesheets. The Mexican seems in his element at the Circuit of the Americas. "For the team, it's just good. You want both cars upfront, especially now at the end of the championship. It's very important that we fight at the front with two cars," Verstappen concluded about his teammate.