Verstappen pronounces prediction: 'It will be close'

The Dutchman complained about too much understeer in the afternoon session, which meant his car's balance was not right. "Initially, I had too much wing, after which I was in traffic most of the time," Verstappen told Ziggo Sport. "The balance wasn’t right, so we’ll have to see. We have work to do, but I’m confident, even though it will be close."

After the serious incident two weeks ago, there were fears that Verstappen could not start the race weekend, but the driver reassures everyone. "It all felt good. The brake I use in my simulator is set up pretty hard so I could already practice to see if my knee or ankle would cope. So when I got in the car, it all felt good. My neck is fine too so it’s all good."

Battle between Red Bull and Mercedes

Red Bull Racing made another last-ditch attempt this week to get Hamilton's penalty increased, but were unsuccessful. Therefore, the difference between Verstappen and Hamilton in the world championship remains at eight points.