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Verstappen surprises with P2 at Spa, credits Hadjar for crucial help
Max Verstappen secured a surprising second place in qualifying at Spa-Francorchamps, an achievement he believes would have been impossible without a strategic slipstream from Isack Hadjar.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-07-18T16:17:04.000Z - 2 min read
Max Verstappen surprised the Formula 1 world with an unexpected second place on the grid during qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix. On the challenging Spa-Francorchamps circuit, the Red Bull driver delivered a strong performance that exceeded even his own expectations. Following the session, the driver admitted that the car had not felt entirely to his liking leading up to qualifying.
His initial expectations for qualifying were accordingly tempered, with a spot on the front row looking difficult to achieve beforehand. Nevertheless, through a combination of driving skill and strategic assistance, he managed to extract maximum performance from his Red Bull machinery. This made second position all the more remarkable and gave him every reason to smile.
A decisive factor behind the result proved to be the help of teammate Isack Hadjar. During one of Verstappen's push laps, he received a strategically timed slipstream from Hadjar. The maneuver, often critical on tracks with long straights like Spa, provided the Dutchman with just enough extra top speed to qualify near the front.
Verstappen was clear about the impact of the assistance. "Without Hadjar's help, I wouldn't have been on the front row," he declared afterwards, emphasizing that Hadjar's contribution was essential and that team collaboration played a pivotal role in securing the surprising second spot. It clearly demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated team strategy.
Utilizing a teammate for a slipstream is a proven Formula 1 tactic, particularly along the long Kemmel Straight at Spa. It requires flawless timing and discipline from both drivers to maximize the aerodynamic draft from the car ahead. Hadjar's execution of the role was apparently seamless and proved immensely valuable to his teammate.
Holding second place on the grid gives Verstappen an ideal launchpad for Sunday's race. Although post-qualifying attention focused on the unexpected P2 and team support, the reigning world champion will be determined to translate this promising starting spot into a strong race finish. The performance undoubtedly boosts morale for the battle at the front.