Spain Quali: Charles Pole, Max and Carlos 2-3
Ferrari Driver Charles LeClerc managed to get the fastest lap in Spain after a spin in his first Q3 run. Max Verstappen was in good touch but his DRS did not open in the last run but he still managed P2. Home boy favourite Carlos Sainz will be starting P3.
Good lap for Charles in Spain
Ferrari seemed to be losing their initial gain to RedBull in the past 2 races. Spain being the first European race had a lot of teams bring significant updates. Both Ferrari and RedBull have got an upgrade package. However Ferrari seems to have an edge over RedBull, as of now. Championship leader Charles LeClerc topped all the three practice sessions. He seemed to have a good run in Quali too but spun in his first Q3 run. So he had only one chance to put in the best lap and he absolutely nailed it to perfection. Charles LeClerc was three tenths faster than Max, getting that coveted Pole position in Spain.
The other Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz Jr. is the local favourite and would be hoping to win the race in front of his fans. However he continues to be behind Charles in terms of pace this season. Still he managed a decent lap to start P3 in the race.
DRS issue for Max
Max seems calm and continues his good form. RedBull still has the straight line speed and even they brought upgrades to Spain. Max was having a good quali session but his DRS did not open in the last Q3 run. This caused a significant drag and he opted to abort the final lap. He still will be starting on the front row in P2.
Team mate Sergio Perez who just had his third child couldn’t string up a good lap and will be starting P5. Checo would be hoping to jump places at the start of the race and be in the mix with the Ferraris and help Max.
Mercedes slowly rising up
Porposing, which has been the biggest issue for Mercedes, has reduced a lot in the straight lines, thanks to the new upgrades. They had very good practice sessions and seemed to be catching up with the Ferraris and RedBulls. George Russell got P4 which is the best Mercedes starting position in the 2022 season. He was still a bit disappointed as he felt there was more pace in the car. Even the 7 time World Champion couldn’t do any better and will be starting P6.
Both HAAS in Q3
HAAS team did not bring any upgrades to Spain but still managed to get both the cars in Q3. Kevin Magnussen will be starting P8 and Mick Schumacher P10, his first Q3. Bottas continues his good form and is P7 – the best of the rest. Danny Ric managed to squeeze in Q3 and will be starting P9.
Aston Martin brought upgrades which look quite similar to RedBull but couldn’t move much and were out in Q1. Even local favourite Fernando Alonso couldn’t get his car in the right position and will be starting P17.
Spain starting grid : Charles on pole
