P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Is Carlos Sainz right about these two F1 drivers being quicker than Max Verstappen in qualifying?
Carlos Sainz states that in 2025, Max Verstappen is not the fastest driver over one lap, citing Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris as quicker contenders. Despite not having a dominant car, Verstappen holds the most pole positions during the 2025 F1 season. Sainz, having been teammates with all three drivers, believes Leclerc and Norris outshine Verstappen slightly in qualifying, but acknowledges Verstappen’s superiority over a race distance. In contrast, Sainz praises Verstappen’s race performance, evidenced by their time together at Toro Rosso and subsequent promotions. While Sainz acknowledges Leclerc’s and Norris’ pace, he emphasizes the impact of car and team dynamics on driver performance.
