Max Verstappen starts third in Spanish Grand Prix qualifying at Madring circuit
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 7:28 AM
Last updated Sep 13, 2026
Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen qualified third for the Spanish Grand Prix at the Madring circuit, trailing Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli. Ahead of the race, Verstappen addressed his tactical approach to the street circuit, suggesting he intends to move away from his aggressive 'Mad Max' persona in favor of a more controlled style. The former four-time world champion described the strategy as 'Lap 1 Max' followed by 'Gentle Max' to manage tire behavior on the current track surface. Beyond his race strategy, Verstappen criticized specific braking zones at the new venue and expressed a willingness to assist designers in future layout adjustments. He noted that drivers possess unique insights into effective corner design, citing Austin as a successful example of a track that facilitates competitive racing. The race remains upcoming as the field prepares for the start.
- •Max Verstappen qualified third behind Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli.
- •The Spanish Grand Prix is held at the newly constructed Madring circuit.
- •Verstappen plans to adopt a conservative approach to manage tire degradation.
- •Drivers are advocating for more input in the design of future racing circuits.
- •Verstappen identified several braking zones at the Madring circuit that require adjustments.
- 7:28 AMYahoo Sports — Verstappen warns rivals of 'Mad Max' evolving: 'New version'
"Max Verstappen will not be 'Mad Max' at the Spanish Grand Prix. The Dutchman will opt for a different approach around the street circuit.
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