Max Verstappen will need to overcome a challenging sprint qualifying session after struggling with a bouncing car and finishing sixth, while McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri dominated the practice runs on November 27, 2025. The Red Bull driver, accustomed to commanding performances, reported his car “hobbled like an idiot” and faced difficulties throughout the session, ultimately falling behind the McLaren duo.
This outcome sets the stage for a competitive sprint race, where Verstappen will be forced to chase Norris and Piastri, who secured the fastest times to advance to Q3. The disappointing qualifying result also comes amidst a tough season for seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton,who failed to advance to the next session,continuing a downward trend for the Mercedes driver.
Verstappen experienced important issues with bouncing during his initial run, even sliding through the gravel, and was unable to improve substantially on his final lap.Despite the car’s instability, he still managed to progress to the second session, though well behind the leading pace set by McLaren. Norris and Piastri established themselves as frontrunners, indicating a potential shift in the competitive landscape as the season progresses.
