Max Verstappen and Gianpiero Lambiase clash again during Qatar Sprint Shootout practice

max verstappen in Singapore — Photo: © LAT Images

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Verstappen and Lambiase clash again during Qatar Sprint Shootout practice

The Red Bull pairing of Verstappen and Lambiase had some discussions during the Qatar weekend

Tyler Foster

Saturday 7 October 2023 16:22 Updated: 17:15

In a reoccurring theme, Red Bull star driver Max Verstappen and race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase shared an angry exchange with each other during the pre-sprint warmup session in Qatar.

Issues with Pirelli’s tyres during Friday’s session for the Qatar Grand Prix led to track changes at the Lusail International Circuit on Saturday. As a result of the modification to some of the track limits and kerbs, an additional 10-minute ‘practice familiarisation session’ was added to Saturday’s schedule.

This unique session offered drivers the opportunity to get a feel for the new layout prior to the sprint shootout. With every driver making an on-track appearance during the 10-minute period, it was important to make the most of the short time available.

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Unfortunately for Verstappen, the Dutchman was one of the drivers to struggle out on track. In the final moments of the session, he ran wide early into turn three while on a push lap. After re-joining the track, Verstappen backed out and returned to the pit lane.

Red Bull frustrations

Verstappen experienced some unusual issues with track limits throughout Saturday

The Dutchman’s race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase was frustrated that his driver hadn’t continued his lap in order to maximise the track time for additional data. What followed was a battle of words between the pair, with neither seemingly amused.

"You could have continued the lap, Max. There was more learning," said Lambiase on the team radio.

"I was off the ******* track," shouted Verstappen.

"That's fine, but there was more learning," said Lambiase.

"It's not qualifying and you could have learnt from Turn Six to Turn 16. But box now."

Max Verstappen in the 2023 championship-winning RB19 at the Qatar Grand Prix

Verstappen was unable to take top spot in the ensuing Sprint Shootout, settling for third on the grid.

However, the two-time world champion won't be too fussed as he only needs to finish sixth in the sprint in order to grab his third consecutive drivers’ championship at the Lusail International Circuit.