Max Verstappen claims Williams Formula 1 driver Felipe Massa ‘ruined’ his qualifying lap for the Bahrain Grand Prix.
Verstappen was fastest in final practice but could only manage sixth in qualifying, over a tenth slower than his Red Bull team-mate Daniel Ricciardo who will line-up fourth in tomorrow’s race.
“Just before I wanted to prepare into the last corner, Felipe dived in front of me then just stopped,” the Dutchman explained.
“There was a big gap behind us, so it was like, ‘why did you do that?’
“I just had to stay in first gear all round the corner to make a gap to him that basically ruined my lap because you have cold tyres, you have a very bad exit out of that last corner and then it’s ruined.
“Well he’s a Brazilian – so there’s not much to discuss,” Verstappen added when asked if he would confront Massa.
Although he had a frustrating qualifying session, Verstappen is still hopeful of a good result in the race.
“We are definitely closer, I think Mercedes is still too fast for us but the Ferrari doesn’t look too far ahead,” Verstappen said.
“Our car seems to work much better on this track so hopefully, we will get a clean start with no incidents and then see what we can do in the race.
“It was definitely possible to be a bit further forward but last time I started a bit further behind and ended on the podium so anything is possible.”
