Verstappen more concerned about the heat than thunderstorms at Sepang

Sepang: Four-time world champion Max Verstappen is more focused on conquering the extreme heat at the Sepang International Circuit for his chance at his first Formula One title of the season at the Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday. While his rivals discussed the uncertainty of thunderstorms and heavy showers at the track, Verstappen highlighted the challenging heatwave as the most testing factor for both drivers and their vehicles.

Having previously won the Malaysian Grand Prix in 2017, Verstappen used his track knowledge to secure pole position on Saturday. He expressed his excitement about being on pole, stating that it has been tough around the circuit due to the intense heat impacting not just the drivers but also the cars, brakes, and tyres. Verstappen emphasized that the race will be a significant challenge, where a lot of factors could influence the outcome.

Despite feeling confident, he acknowledged that anything could happen during the race, urging the team to stay alert and competitive. Notably, Verstappen's victory on Saturday marked the first time a non-Mercedes power unit had topped the grid, with Mercedes drivers Kimi Antilainen and George Russell, as well as McLaren's Lando Norris and Pierre Gasly, the only other drivers to achieve this feat.