The recent qualifying session for the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort has been marked by a joke from Max Verstappen that has gone viral. The Red Bull driver anticipated a complaint from his Mercedes rival, George Russell, which ultimately did not occur.
During the qualifying session, Verstappen told race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase that it was likely Russell would cry over the pit exit situation, claiming it was «not dangerous.» Despite his predictions, Russell made no comments about his exit.
Fans have reacted to the joke with various comments on social media, with a Reddit user expressing, «This does nothing. It made me hate. Be like George.» Others pointed out that the absence of complaints from the Mercedes driver has left Verstappen in a slightly awkward position.
Moreover, Verstappen’s playful tone has been praised, with fans enjoying his relaxed attitude and satire. One of them said, «I like a message from Max because it makes me laugh, the calmness of GP is always fun.»
In another aspect of the qualifying, Lando Norris from McLaren secured pole position, and will be joined on the front row by Russell. Verstappen qualified seventh, while his teammate, Liam Lawson, who is replacing Isack Hadjar, will start in eighth place.
The Dutch Grand Prix will take place at 15:00 local time (14:00 GMT) next Sunday, August 23.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
SourceID: SRC_8e57de1e21061cb765e95f08156565c77ea22957