Verstappen explains tyre choice in Sepang second practice
Max Verstappen said he skipped a soft-tyre qualifying simulation in Friday’s second practice at Sepang because of concerns that rain could affect the session. After topping FP1, he ended FP2 fourth while using a different tyre approach.
At Formula 1’s return to Sepang International Circuit, Max Verstappen was fastest in Friday’s first practice before finishing fourth in FP2. His second-session run plan drew attention because he did not complete a soft-tyre qualifying simulation.
Verstappen said the decision was linked to concerns about possible rain. He explained that this was why he followed an unusual tyre strategy in FP2, running mediums instead of doing the soft-tyre run typically used for qualifying preparation.
The contrast between his FP1 result and his FP2 position prompted discussion, but Verstappen’s comments made clear the tyre choice was deliberate rather than a straightforward indicator of pace.
In this story
Sources (3)
Summaries are synthesized by F1 Hub from the linked sources. Follow the links above to read the full reporting at each outlet.