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Red Bull's Verstappen, who starts on sprint pole, commented: "It is consistently difficult to predict [if he knew he could get the car on pole]."

"In my view in SQ1 and SQ2 the car felt competitive, extremely competitive and during the final session the key was perfecting your lines with only a single opportunity so it's very challenging."

"The lap felt strong, the performance was solid. I anticipate there will be an intense fight in the sprint event against McLaren. It's a bit warmer but all drivers are in the same boat."

"I expect it to be a real fight."