Verstappen leaves Perez stunned after Q3

Sergio Perez qualified for the Russian Grand Prix in fourth place. He beat the Renault of Daniel Ricciardo. For a long time this weekend it seemed that that would be enough for a third place, but suddenly there was that Red Bull.

Perez has been at the Sochi Autodrom all weekend. Together with Daniel Ricciardo he was invariably in the top five and was often faster than Max Verstappen. The Dutchman from Red Bull Racing himself also took into account that a third place might be difficult, but during Q3 he suddenly found the speed to stay ahead of even Valtteri Bottas.

"I don’t know where Max came from,” said Perez to Formula1.com. “He was always in the mix a bit with us – and then he went to the other category with the Mercedes! But I think for us, that was the maximum… it was good to beat the Renaults because there were very strong today, so pleased with the result."

The Mexican is moderately positive for the race. He may be satisfied with fourth place, but if no crazy things happen he doesn't think he can improve this position on Sunday, although of course he always keeps hope. "I don't think so, but who knows, with a good start anything could happen."