P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen and Red Bull have saved several Formula 1 weekends this season with big turnarounds – but not in Monaco, where it “doesn’t matter what you do with the set-up”
Max Verstappen and Red Bull have had strong performances in Formula 1, but struggled in Monaco qualifying with their biggest deficit of the season. Verstappen’s fifth place finish in qualifying came with a 0.7s gap to pole position, a significant difference from their previous performances. Despite a disappointing Saturday, Verstappen had shown promise in earlier practice sessions but struggled with grip and performance in low-speed corners. The issues with balance and mechanical grip have been ongoing for Red Bull, particularly in Monaco where the car’s weaknesses are exposed. Verstappen remains hopeful for a podium finish on Sunday due to Lewis Hamilton’s grid penalty, but acknowledges the challenges they face on a track that doesn’t suit their car’s characteristics.
