Max Verstappen issues pecking order prediction after positive Red Bull start

Max Verstappen has predicted that the pecking order at this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix will become clear in third practice, following a positive opening day for Red Bull.

The Dutchman is running the original-spec rear wing at Spa-Francorchamps following the removal of the team's upside-down design after a problem was discovered with it.

It did not slow Verstappen down, as the four-time world champion went quickest in first practice before finishing third in second practice.

Verstappen did trigger a brief red flag in FP2 after dragging gravel onto the circuit and once again complained of "unacceptable" downshifts. Overall, however, the 28-year-old was pleased with Friday.

Asked how Friday went, Verstappen said: "It went pretty well, we didn’t have any major problems and the balance was there right away. 

"We had the car set up well and were mainly fine-tuning. Some things worked well, some didn’t, but overall the car worked fine and with the package we have, it was a good day."

With Isack Hadjar fifth quickest, it was a very positive start for Red Bull, although Verstappen is unsure how much more pace the RB22 has in reserve.

Verstappen was nearly five tenths slower than pacesetter Kimi Antonelli, although he is hopeful of reducing the deficit ahead of qualifying.

"We are focusing on ourselves," added Verstappen. "I don’t know how much we can achieve compared to the others. 

"I think you will only see the real gaps in the third free practice session, but that is nothing shocking and it is as expected. Hopefully, we can close the gap heading into qualifying."