P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren have been left encouraged by its assertion that Max Verstappen “didn’t have so much in hand” compared to past
Despite starting out of position in qualifying, both McLaren drivers were able to recover and secure a double podium finish. The team boss, Andrea Stella, mentioned that their pace against Red Bull was flattered due to the imposed mandatory 18-lap stints. Stella also believes that Max Verstappen didn’t have as much lap time in reserve as usual and that McLaren’s cars would have applied more pressure if they started nearer the front. The high-speed Lusail International Circuit suited McLaren’s car, and Mercedes would have posed a greater threat if their cars hadn’t collided at Turn 1. Overall, McLaren was pleased with their tyre degradation and their ability to push at the end of a stint.
Source: Motorsport Week
