Verstappen is disappointed: 'We have to try and fix that'

Max Verstappen had a good first day at the Qatar Grand Prix. The Dutchman set the first and third fastest time in succession, twice ahead of his competitor Lewis Hamilton. Yet Verstappen expects a difficult weekend ahead, he says in conversation with Ziggo Sport.

The practice sessions showed that Mercedes have more speed in Qatar than Red Bull. It means that Verstappen and his team will have to look elsewhere if they are to beat the seven-time world champion. Although Verstappen realises that it will be difficult, he remains confident in the team.

The driver enjoyed the first day at the Qatar circuit. "I felt at home immediately, because I had practiced quite well on my own simulator. That felt familiar", said the Dutchman, who was satisfied with his own performance. "In itself it looked pretty good."

DRS system of Verstappen

The Red Bull driver still had some problems with his DRS system, but expects his team to do something about it soon. "We've been struggling all year with the system not being strong enough. Then it comes back down and then goes back down to the same height. So we have to try and fix that."