Max Verstappen has spent much of the season complaining about Formula One's hybrid engines and threatening to quit. But after a sensational qualifying run on Saturday, the four-time world champion is smiling again.
He secured a front row start for the Monaco Grand Prix, just 0.043 seconds behind pole setter Kimi Antonelli. Verstappen admitted he would have happily taken that result after a difficult practice session earlier in the day.
"This morning, I think we had some difficulties with the car, so heading into qualifying and being up there I think was extremely positive," Verstappen said.
A key factor in his turnaround: the demanding Monaco street circuit. The track's tight corners and bumpy surface allow him to push the car to its limits, making a clean lap "very rewarding when it goes well."