F1 News

Bizarre: DRS of Verstappen broken on last lap of qualifying!

4 September 2021 at 15:48
  • GPblog.com

During qualifying for the Dutch Grand Prix, Max Verstappen just managed to take pole position. The Red Bull Racing driver did so without DRS in the final stretch.

In Q1 and Q2 of qualifying Verstappen already showed that he feels good in his skin on the Zandvoort circuit, but of course, the decisive battle will be fought in Q3. His first lap in the final session is a fast one, but you can never underestimate Lewis Hamilton.

For the very last fast lap, Verstappen gives everything to stay ahead of his rival in the world championship and he just manages to do so, with a small improvement. But it could have been even better because the DRS of Verstappen doesn't open on the last part before the finish. Robert Doornbos of Ziggo Sport also sees this: "From the white line that valve should open, but it doesn't! Luckily for Verstappen, it's a short run, otherwise, he could have lost pole position."

Red Bull Racing confirms error with DRS

The problems with the DRS valve is also immediately confirmed by Christian Horner, Verstappen's team boss. Speaking to Sky Sports F1, the Brit reveals that it cost the Dutchman precious time. "We saw that he lost a lot of speed on the last straight and it seems that the DRS didn't open properly. So, he gave away one and a half tenths. A great performance from him under great pressure!" concludes Horner.