P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Verstappen ‘deserves’ fourth in China F1 sprint qualifying with wet struggles
Having dominated every pole position in the 2024 F1 season, Verstappen appeared as the favorite after excelling in Q2 of the sprint qualifying session, despite the rain causing chaos at the Shanghai International Circuit where no driver had recent wet weather experience. Unfortunately, in Q3, several drivers, including Verstappen, struggled with off-track excursions due to the wet conditions. As a result, Verstappen qualified fourth for the Chinese GP sprint race, notably slower than polesitter Lando Norris. Verstappen attributed his difficulties to inability to generate proper tire temperature in the wet conditions and compared the experience to driving on ice. Looking forward to the race, Verstappen anticipates challenges starting on the left-hand side of the grid, aiming to maximize Red Bull’s tire management advantage for progress. Although facing a challenging starting position, Verstappen remains hopeful for a strong performance in the dry conditions of the sprint race using strategic tire management.
