Max Verstappen finished the opening day of the Australian Grand Prix in seventh. The reigning champion was nearly sixth tenth slower than pace setter Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) at the end of the second free practice session. The two McLarens of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris completed the top three. Max’s Oracle Red Bull Racing teammate Liam Lawson finished Friday practice is P17.

“The balance wasn’t bad, but for some reason we couldn’t find the grip”, said the Dutchman. “There aren’t really any balance issues, so it will be hard to solve. But it’s not completely unexpected; I’m not positively or negatively surprised by our pace. We’ve not really performed well around here since the track resurfacing. But it’s the same for everyone so we have find some more pace.”