“Red flag ruined the chance for pole,” says Max Verstappen after finishing second in the qualifying session

“Red flag ruined the chance for pole,” says Max Verstappen after finishing second in the qualifying session

Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen finished on the second spot in the qualifying session of the Monaco GP on Saturday. This will be the Dutch driver’s third consecutive start in the first row of the main race. However, this time he will be locked in the first row alongside the home favorite, Charles Leclerc who took the pole position.

Max Verstappen did not enjoy a good start to his week in Monaco, as he disappointed in the first two practice sessions on Thursday. However, he bounced back in some style on Saturday, as he finished first in the third practice session. His fierce rival, Lewis Hamilton had a rare failure and finished on the seventh spot in the qualifying session. Valtteri Bottas rounded off the top 3, whereas, Carlos Sainz finished on the fourth spot.

Max Verstappen rues missed opportunity

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The third qualifying session was red-flagged with just 18 seconds remaining, after Charles Leclerc hit the barrier. Max Verstappen had already completed two laps in the Q3 session, and was on a flying lap on his final try. The 23-year old was going well, and could have easily obtained the pole position, if not for the red flag.

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As a result, Charles Leclerc held his position and finished on pole. However, a gear box damage due to the crash could place the Ferrari driver in danger of a five place penalty for the main race.

“It was all going really well [but] the red flag ruined the chance for pole. Nevertheless I think, so far, it’s a good weekend. We’ve recovered well from Thursday,” said Max Verstappen.

Charles Leclerc stated that he was happy with his performance, but at the same time worried about the damage to his car. “It’s a shame to finish in the wall, it doesn’t feel the same! But at the same time I’m incredibly happy about my lap “I am [worried about the gearbox], but let’s see,” said Leclerc.

Also Read: Monaco GP Qualifying Result: Charles Leclerc takes pole position, Lewis Hamilton finishes seventh