Max fastest in Mexico: 'Not worried yet'

Published on 26 October 2018 by Stefan Meens

After setting the fastest lap in FP1, Max Verstappen continued to show his speed in the second free practice session of the Mexican Grand Prix. The Aston Martin Red Bull Racing driver was once again quickest around the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. FP2’s top three was identical to the morning session’s outcome with Max’ team mate Daniel Ricciardo in second, ahead of Renault’s Carlos Sainz.

Although on the pace, Max had to park his RB14 trackside at the end of the session.“We’re not worried yet”, said the youngster. “We’re not sure what the problem is, but most likely an hydraulic issue. We won’t know for sure until we have the car back. It’s a shame, but we have a good car with enough downforce and mechanical grip. We knew we had, based on Monaco and today went well. Perhaps we can fight for pole tomorrow but we’ll have to work hard to improve.”

At 2pm local time, the pitlane opens for the second Friday practice session. Pierre Gasly in the Scuderia Toro Rosso is first on track. The Frenchman completes an installation lap before returning to his team without setting a time. The first to complete a timed lap of the Mexico City based circuit is Kimi Raikkonen on the super-softs. Not long after, most drivers head out for timed runs as the lap times drop.

Max’ first run is completed on the ultra-soft Pirellis and immediately the Dutchman picked up where he left; three purple sectors mean P1.

At the halfway mark, Max also heads out on the hyper-softs. He utilizes the extra grip and performance by setting purple sector times in sector two and three, ultimately lapping quickest of all. Nevertheless, Max is not happy: “The engine isn’t doing what it should. We need to have a look”, reports the youngster to his team.

After everybody has completed their runs on the hyper-softs, the focus shifts on long-runs. It means the lap times no longer improve and Max’ position at the top of the leaderboard is secure.

Despite the encouraging speed shown, Max’ day does not and well. Apparent hydraulic issues force the 21-year-old to park his RB14 trackside, marking a disappointing end to a promising start to his Mexican Grand Prix weekend.

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Results second free practice Mexico: