Max Verstappen has stated Red Bull tipped the RB20 car “over the edge” in search for performance in Baku.
Verstappen ended qualifying in sixth place and was out-paced by team-mate Sergio Perez across one lap for the first time this season.
Red Bull brought an upgraded floor to the weekend in Azerbaijan as it looks to claw back the front-running performance that has slipped away at recent rounds.
Having been content with his car during practice, Verstappen conceded the team went too far when searching for the optimal performance window of the RB20 ahead of qualifying.
“As soon as I went out in Q1, the first lap, I just felt the car took a step back, we made some changes,” Verstappen told media including RacingNews365.
“The car became incredibly unpredictable, difficult. Just because of the changes that we made.
“You’re a bit disappointed with that as you always try to optimise things and make it better. Unfortunately, I think we tipped it over the edge. A shame that happened into qualifying.”
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Verstappen admits to costly mistake
Verstappen has not taken to the top step of the podium since the Spanish Grand Prix in June.
His quest to end the drought has been made tougher with his sixth-place starting position, with team-mate Perez directly in front of him in fourth.
Despite facing difficulties with the handling of his car, Verstappen admitted to a mistake on his first run that cost him a spot on the front row.
“My first run in Q3, I lost it into the last corner, otherwise you’re fighting for P2, P3. You still have a run, you can still improve the lap time.
“I just didn’t have the feeling in the car. I never felt comfortable as the car was difficult.
“If you don’t feel comfortable because the car was difficult, so when you’re not comfortable, you can’t attack corners, you’re a bit under in it.”
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