Verstappen: "Tough day, but with positive ending"

Max Verstappen did not drive a flawless practice session on Friday of the Bahrain GP. Although the Red Bull Racing driver competed at the top of the timesheet, we also heard complaining and there were some problems with the RB19. Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso was even too quick for the Dutchman in FP2.

Despite the somewhat difficult day, the Dutchman does not sound so negative to the press. According to him, it was a difficult day, but with a positive ending. F1 journalist Erik van Haren quotes Verstappen: "The long run was not bad, as was the last fast lap. We still have some work to do, but we improved during the day."

Verstappen is particularly calm despite the pressure that comes with his 2023 favourite role. He already looked relaxed during Thursday's press conference, for instance. According to the Dutchman, this is not only because of the strong RB19 but is simply part of his mindset. Verstappen believes it is important to stay calm under different circumstances and he shows that again here.