Max Verstappen slams ‘undriveable’ Red Bull after Japanese GP qualifying exit
Max Verstappen has labelled his Red Bull “completely undriveable” after suffering a shock Q2 elimination during qualifying for the Japanese Grand Prix.
The four-time world champion will start Sunday’s race at Suzuka from 11th on the grid following another difficult session in the 2026 season.
It continues a dismal start to the campaign for the 28-year-old, who has accumulated just eight championship points across the opening two rounds.
Despite safely navigating the first phase, the Dutchman failed to crack the top 10 shootout.
He was ultimately outpaced by far less experienced drivers, including team-mate Isack Hadjar and rookie Arvid Lindblad.
‘Beyond frustrated’ by ongoing struggles
The defending champion vented his anger over the team radio immediately after his elimination was confirmed.
“I think there is something wrong with the car. It’s completely undriveable suddenly in this qualifying.”
His latest setback follows a Q1 crash in Australia and finishes outside the top 10 in both the sprint and feature races in China.
Suzuka has traditionally been a stronghold for the Red Bull talisman, raising hopes of a return to form this weekend.
However, ongoing mechanical mysteries appear to be severely hampering his confidence behind the wheel.
Setup tweaks fail to yield results
Speaking to the media post-session, the seasoned racer admitted he was stuck and unable to push the limits of his machinery.
“We made changes all weekend, but at the same time we also have some problems in the car that we’re trying to fix, and I guess it was worse again in qualifying.”
He noted that the handling became unpredictable whenever he attempted to attack the high-speed corners.
“As soon as you really tried to push, for me it was just all over the place. Really not good, and also really doesn’t give you confidence.”
The former title dominator believes an unidentified issue has developed since the opening round in Melbourne.
“I’m not even frustrated anymore, you know, I’m beyond that.”
