Formula 1 | Red Bull, Horner delighted with Verstappen's qualifying at Suzuka

F1 GP Japan Red Bull – Two-speed qualifying for Red Bull in Suzuka, scene of the next Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix.

Interviewed by the team's official website, Christian Horner analyzed Max Verstappen's splendid performance on the Japanese track, specifying how the Dutchman - thanks to his talent and a stratospheric RB19 - managed to drive in a sublime way, inflicting very heavy gaps on all opponents. A nice redemption after the failure of Singapore.

It's a different story for Sergio Perez, given that the latter - author of the fifth fastest time - struggled with balance throughout the weekend and tomorrow will have to start behind the McLarens and Charles Leclerc's Ferrari.

“Today we witnessed something very special, as Max seemed to be competing in a championship of his own,” said the Team Principal of the world champion team. “He had three sets of new tires for the entire qualifying and I would say that he managed to optimize as best as possible. In Q1 his first lap was fast and he also confirmed himself to be competitive in Q2 with the compound used. Then, in Q3, he pulled off some real magic. An incredible performance. I encourage fans to watch the replay of his final lap, especially the transition into Turns 5 and 6, as well as the high-speed sectors. It was exceptional and you just have to take your hat off to these things.”

On Checo's performance he instead declared: “Perez drove well, but he will have to start from fifth position, which will complicate his race quite a bit. He will certainly have more work to do. In any case, he has a good race pace, as well as a very strong car, and therefore has everything it takes to make overtaking moves and recover positions."