Mercedes surprised Verstappen: 'Details make the difference these days'

Not a Ferrari or a McLaren. Certainly no Sergio Perez. When Max Verstappen stepped out of his Red Bull in parc fermé, it was George Russell with his Mercedes who had suddenly emerged as his main rival for victory in the Canadian Grand Prix. Yet another challenger, as it is shifting points at the front this season. But that it was a Mercedes this time, few probably thought beforehand.

Verstappen himself had also not estimated that he will have Russell in front of him on the first starting position later this Sunday. "Well, I think so," the Dutchman also responded when asked if he was surprised by Mercedes' speed. "I think in general, when you look at the whole grid, there are quite a few surprises, like good surprises and bad surprises."

Indeed both Visa Cash App RB drivers did exceptionally well with two cars in the top 10. In turn, the two Ferrari drivers did not get through Q2. "It just shows that everyone is closing up and it's really details that make the difference. Maybe you understand tyres better. Certain weaknesses from your car and probably other teams have their own weaknesses."

According to Verstappen, the layout of a circuit can also make a difference. All in all, the Red Bull driver's conclusion after an exciting qualifying session for the Canadian Grand Prix is: "It is good for Formula 1."