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Verstappen bounced back by claiming P2 in Miami Qualifying — a warning sign that the four-time champion might be tapping back into his usual dominant self.
Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen surged to a strong P2 in Miami Qualifying (AFP)
You thought he was down and out for the count?
Amid all the chaos regarding the new F1 regulations, Red Bull Racing have given F1 fans yet another reason to be excited for what’s to come.
Because, guess who feels more in control of his fate and his car now?
Four-time world champion Max Verstappen delivered a timely reminder of his quality, storming to P2 in Qualifying at the Miami Grand Prix.
It hasn’t been smooth sailing for Red Bull Racing so far this year. Early struggles with the RB22 left Verstappen chasing the pace across the opening rounds.
But with upgrades rolled out at the Miami International Autodrome, the Dutchman looked far more comfortable. After finishing P5 in the Sprint, he turned it up when it mattered, missing out on pole by just 0.166 seconds to Kimi Antonelli.
More importantly, it’s his first front-row start of the season and a sign that Red Bull may finally be heading in the right direction.
“I feel more in control of the car again, then I can push a bit more, then the upgrades are working,” Verstappen said after Qualifying.
“To be on the front row is way better than I expected heading into the weekend.”
Light At the End Of The Tunnel
For a driver like Verstappen, confidence in the car is everything. And that missing link may finally be back.
“I’m already very happy with where we are,” he added. “From here, there’s like light at the end of the tunnel, and we can just push on and try to close the gap further.”
That’s a warning shot. Because when Verstappen feels “in control,” he hunts.
If there’s one thing the paddock knows by now, it’s this: give Verstappen half a chance, and he’ll take the whole thing.
After a slow start to 2026, the apex predator might just be waking up — and that would be bad news for everyone else, if true.
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