Max Verstappen said the Monaco Grand Prix qualifying session allowed him to drive naturally without battery management demands imposed by 2026 regulations.
Verstappen described the session as a return to form after criticizing the new powertrain rules, which split output 53-47 between combustion engine and electric components. The low-speed corners at Monaco enabled cars to recharge batteries easily, removing the need to conserve energy. 'I finally felt just myself again in the car,' Verstappen said. He noted better vision at apexes and the ability to select gears freely, adding that such conditions are rare on the calendar. The Red Bull driver was surprised to challenge for pole after trailing by nine tenths of a second in final practice. He identified the middle sector as the team's ongoing weakness due to bumps and curbs but called the overall result a strong turnaround. Verstappen confirmed the team would focus on the race start, which he said appears more critical this year.
