Max Verstappen identifies Red Bull weakness in Baku battle

Max Verstappen has identified a weakness of Red Bull's on the opening day of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which saw the Dutchman end second practice in sixth. 

The four-time world champion had a relatively calm start to the weekend at the Baku City Circuit, but found himself several tenths adrift of the lead positions. 

Verstappen ended FP2 just over six-tenths adrift of pacesetter Lewis Hamilton, although the 27-year-old was five-tenths clear of team-mate Yuki Tsunoda.

Despite not being towards the front, Verstappen felt strong on Friday and found a good balance for the RB21, allowing him to focus on outright speed in third practice on Saturday. 

Finding more one lap pace is an overnight task for Red Bull, as Verstappen outlined that it is where the team are currently struggling in what he expects to be a tight battle come qualifying.

"It didn't go wrong," said Verstappen. "The car feels good, which is positive. We've found a stable balance on this rather specific track. That's what you need. 

"Everything has to come together to drive a good lap. We're still a bit short on one flying lap; there's still more to be gained from the car and myself. 

"Hopefully, that will go a bit better tomorrow. The long run felt fine. It's always slippery here and hard on the tyres with the softer compounds, but that didn't go wrong. 

"I expect a few teams to be close together, and then it all comes down to driving a perfect lap."