Hamilton takes Verstappen into account: 'Red Bull difficult to overtake'

This afternoon Lewis Hamilton will start from P1 in the first sprint race in Formula 1. The Brit of Mercedes was a fraction faster than Max Verstappen, who in turn will start from P2. The Red Bull Racing driver is keen to get the seven-time champion behind him, but Hamilton has other plans.

"I mean passing the Red Bull is not easy, so it really helps to be where we are. But we've got to get off the line, and we've still got so many things and obstacles up ahead of us. The sprint race is going to be an interesting one, I think I've got the car where I need it, so we'll see," explained Hamilton to Autosport.

"I mean, it is not a long race is it? So just pushing as much as possible, really. I don’t think it’ll be too chaotic, maybe for the first few laps, but then things will settle down and it will be quite straightforward". Hamilton is hoping he can hold on to his first starting spot, but he also says he won't take any big risks.

Because, if he has an accident and falls back as a result, not only will he lose valuable points on Saturday, but he will also be obliged to play catch-up on Sunday. "So it is not about taking risks, it is about choosing your battles wisely, because the points are still on Sunday and not just Saturday," Hamilton concluded.