Verstappen not expecting much from Perez: 'It's hard to overtake here'

Perez had a difficult Saturday in Australia. During the third free practice it already became clear that he was suffering from a brake problem. That problem clearly had not been solved during qualifying, as Perez overshot at the third corner and had to end his session. As a result, Verstappen's teammate will start from last place on Sunday.

Verstappen was asked if he thinks Perez will play another significant role in the race. The Dutchman stated that he personally does not expect a challenge from Perez under normal conditions, but he does not dare say much about his teammate's overall chances. "I don't know. I think this track is a bit tricky to pass but that extra DRS zone will help, for sure. But again, it's just really difficult to say. I mean, it depends also, how the pace of the other cars are in the race, if they have tyre deg, or if you’re better on deg. A lot of factors come into play."

Russell and Hamilton don't see it rosy either

The Mercedes drivers were also asked about their outlook on the situation. "I think it'll be challenging around here," Russell analysed. "For sure he will come through to the top 10. But I don't think, on a circuit like this, you'd be able to fight it towards the front." Hamilton agrees with his teammate's words with a simple "Same".