Verstappen sets out key plan to keep championship alive in Qatar
Photo: Race Pictures
Updated: 23:00, 29 Nov 2025
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Samson Ero is a Formula 1 editor at GPblog with seven years’ experience in sports media. He covers key paddock developments, offering analysis on drivers, teams, and performance trends, with work featured on leading platforms.
Max Verstappen has promised to go on an all-out attack on the opening lap of the Qatar Grand Prix after finishing P3 in qualifying.
“I will try everything at the start.”- Max Verstappen
The Red Bull Racing driver, who spoke to GPblog following Qatar GP qualifying, promised to go on a full attack when discussing his approach for the race.
“I will try everything at the start. If I don't pass Lando [Norris], he scores more points than me,” he said.
The Dutch driver, however, admitted it would be a tough challenge, referencing the Sprint race where he was stuck behind the McLaren driver.
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Max Verstappen after the Qatar GP qualifying - Photo: Race Pictures
“It will be tough. In the sprint as well, I tried, but then we just fall into that window where we struggle a lot on the tyres and don’t really manage to keep up,” he added.
Further highlighting the pace the McLaren car has, Verstappen concluded:
“Also, those final laps of Oscar in that sprint, I’d need to cut a corner to match him. So it might be a little better, but I think it will be tough to do that. But let's see. It's a long race. Anything can happen.”
Verstappen remains in contention for the drivers’ title, but he must finish ahead of Norris in Qatar to keep the championship fight alive heading into the final race in Abu Dhabi.
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Verstappen keeps things real after qualifying
Earlier, Verstappen did not hold back his feelings after qualifying in third place. The Red Bull Racing driver pointed out the limitations of his car before stressing that it was the best result he could achieve under the circumstances.
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Friday 05.06.26
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11:30 AM
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Friday 05.06.26
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