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Verstappen's Qualifying Edge Over McLaren: Driver Skill or Car?

Verstappen's Qualifying Edge Over McLaren: Driver Skill or Car?

Summary
맥라렌의 레이스 경쟁력에도 불구하고 베르스타펜이 퀄리파잉에서 우위를 점하는 이유는 무엇일까요? 드라이버 역량과 차량 특성의 미묘한 관계를 분석합니다.

Why Verstappen Outqualifies McLaren Despite 'Faster' Car

Miami GP highlighted McLaren's race dominance, especially in high tyre degradation conditions, raising the question: Why does Verstappen secure more poles?

  • The Big Picture: McLaren excels in races with significant rear tyre wear, but qualifying is a different story, with Verstappen leading in pole positions.
  • Horner's View: Verstappen's ability to perform under pressure gives him an edge, even with a potentially slower car. He is a master on that last lap.
  • Stella's Counterpoint: McLaren's car, while fast, doesn't provide drivers with enough feedback at the limit, making consistent qualifying laps difficult. They struggle to get their MCL39 to the limit on one-lap pace due to numb front end.
  • The Details:
    • Verstappen: 3 poles in 6 races.
    • Piastri: 2 poles.
    • Norris: 1 pole.
    • Miami GP confirmed McLaren's racing dominance, but Verstappen still managed pole.
  • What's Next:
    • Upcoming European races will test upgrades from Red Bull and McLaren.
    • FIA's stricter front wing flex tests could impact performance.
    • Will McLaren improve drivability, or will changes affect their pace?

Original Article :https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/max-verstappen-beating-mclaren-pole-f1-2025/1...

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