Story perspectives

Verstappen Struggles with Undriveable Red Bull, Qualifies 11th

3/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Max Verstappen, Red Bull driver, finished 11th in qualifying for the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix and failed to reach Q3 for the first time since 2022.
He described the Red Bull RB22 as undriveable, citing mid-corner handling problems and excessive oversteer.
Verstappen was outqualified by his teammate Isack Hadjar and Racing Bulls rookie Arvid Lindblad.
Kimi Antonelli, the pole-sitter, secured pole position for the race, underscoring Red Bull's ongoing difficulties.

History

Historical Context

Max Verstappen's 2022 Formula One season began with a record-breaking 15 wins, securing his second championship for Red Bull Racing. However, the introduction of new technical regulations in 2022, aimed at enhancing competition, has led to significant challenges for the RB22, with Verstappen struggling to adapt. This shift highlights the evolving dynamics in Formula One and Red Bull's need to recalibrate its strategies.

1 of 2

Story summary

Max Verstappen, Red Bull driver, finished 11th in qualifying for the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix and failed to reach Q3 for the first time since 2022.
He described the Red Bull RB22 as undriveable, citing mid-corner handling problems and excessive oversteer.
Verstappen was outqualified by his teammate Isack Hadjar and Racing Bulls rookie Arvid Lindblad.
Kimi Antonelli, the pole-sitter, secured pole position for the race, underscoring Red Bull's ongoing difficulties.

1 / 2