Verstappen expects strong race: "At least a podium is the goal"

Max Verstappen proved inimitable in qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix. The championship leader impressed with a near-perfect lap, which, even without a second run, gave him a lead of over six tenths over second-placed Carlos Sainz. For the race on Sunday, he expects to reach at least the podium.

In front of the Viaplay camera, Verstappen explains that Red Bull Racing made some small adjustments prior to qualifying. "The whole weekend just felt fine, and of course, you always try to make small adjustments to improve the car a bit more. That's what we did for qualifying, and I was very happy with it," the Dutchman began.

Verstappen's qualifying was focused on beating title rival Charles Leclerc, who starts just behind the Red Bull driver from P16. "That was the goal, but of course in the end you just try to be first in qualifying," continued the reigning world champion. "The feeling was just good and then of course you just go for it." His expectations for the race? "At least a podium is the goal with a car that is going so well.