The chronicle of the qualifying of the Emilia-Romagna GP
He wins again: Max Verstappen. Despite the difficulties, despite the exponential growth of McLaren and Ferrari, despite the elimination of Checo Perez – with the second Red Bull – even in Q2, the Dutch champion made yet another move in the decisive moment. The pole position of the Imola GP is hisby a handful of thousandths ahead of Oscar Piastri’s two McLarens (which however risks a retreat due to impediment) and Lando Norris. This is the seventh consecutive pole start in seven qualifying sessions in 2024, the eighth also counting Abu Dhabi 2023.
Only fourth and fifth were the two Ferraris of Leclerc and Sainz, truly disappointed this Saturday. However, the gaps between the cars are very narrow and everything is at stake for tomorrow’s race. But it is forbidden to think of doing the math without the innkeeper Max. Davide Valsecchi interviewed the top three.
The words of the top-3
Max Verstappen (1st, Red Bull): “The weekend has been very difficult so far, even this morning. I’m incredibly happy to be on pole here, I didn’t expect it. We made some changes before qualifying which made me feel better and I was able to push harder. This track is incredible. On the one lap, being at the limit, close to the gravel, makes your heart pump. The adrenaline is very high. Match Senna? Great start to the year, it’s special to equal it 30 years after his death and on this very track. I’m very satisfied to take pole here. In some ways it’s a nice way to remember him, he was a phenomenon, especially on the qualifying laps. Nice day for me and the team.”
Oscar Piastri (2nd, McLaren): “The ride was very good. At the last corner I messed up a bit, but being perfect here is difficult. I’m very happy, I’ve felt very comfortable in the car since I went to the track yesterday. It’s been a while since I was in the top-3 after qualifying. I’m very happy with how the weekend has gone so far. Fight to win tomorrow? I think yes. With our recent performances it makes me want to say yes. We had good pace all weekend. You can never rule out Max and Red Bull, but confidence is high.”
Lando Norris (3rd, McLaren): “My lap was excellent. We came very close to first, all three of us within minimal margins. For us as a team it was a great day and a great weekend. Oscar and Max did a great job, I can’t wait for tomorrow. We are getting closer, being ahead of Ferrari is a good result for us. The margins are minimal, everything will be decided between departure and strategy.”
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