Verstappen happy after tricky qualifying: 'Last lap was very nice'

Max Verstappen has explained that he had a very tricky qualifying session. The Dutchman had to fight against both McLaren drivers, and had a challenge from George Russell and Alex Albon in drying conditions.

"It was a very tricky qualifying. The track surface is quite slippery with the new tarmac. It was all about putting your laps in but staying out of trouble. I think we managed that quite well," Verstappen said.

Towards the end of qualifying, conditions were treacherous because of the drying track that was still very wet in places. "There was one dry line in some places on the slicks, so we had to risk it a bit, but that last lap was very enjoyable," continued Verstappen.

Asked if he felt extra pressure from the massive home crowd, the Dutchman replied. "The pressure is always there to perform, but when you pull it off it's incredible."