Binotto lashes out firmly: 'Manoeuvre by Verstappen is reckless'

Ferrari hoped to start up front once again at the Japanese Grand Prix, but that proved not to be the case in qualifying on Saturday. In conversation with Sky Sports Italia considerably, but the team boss still sees plenty of chances in the race.

"Ten-thousandth's are nothing. It's a shame about pole," he informed. "But we are happy that both drivers are close to fighting for pole. Tomorrow could make a difference. The changing track conditions will give us an advantage. The start will be important. We will analyse that one as always and not just look at the first corner."

Behind the scenes, race control is still deliberating on a possible penalty for Max Verstappen. In his outlap, the Dutchman almost collided hard with Lando Norris, who drove past him at full speed and narrowly missed him.

Binotto is following the situation with interest as it could cause Leclerc to end up in pole position after all. "Verstappen's manoeuvre is reckless. The regulations provide for either a reprimand or three grid positions."