Why Red Bull is content with Leclerc denying Verstappen pole

Red Bull has suggested that it expects to possess stronger race pace compared to a single fast lap after missing out on pole position for the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz ended qualifying in first and second respectively with Verstappen settling for third.

However, Sainz will drop to 12th for the start of the race due to a grid penalty, allowing Verstappen to take up position on the front row alongside Leclerc.

Speaking to Sky F1 after the session, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner told how the team was anticipating a pole position for Ferrari - its third in the last four races.

"What we saw [in practice], they're very quick over one lap and I think the characteristics of car, they work the tyre harder. We expected that to be honest with you," Horner said.

Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko concurred, informing ServusTV: “P3 was the maximum possible for us.

“What I think will be the deciding factor [in the race] is who can keep the tyres alive the longest. On that front, I think we have an advantage.”

Red Bull highlight race advantage

A common theme at recent events has been Ferrari taking pole position before dropping back in the Grand Prix behind Red Bull.

Marko hinted that he expects a similar scenario to unfold during the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

"Ferrari's engine makes the difference here and we know they warm up their tyres faster," the Motorsport Advisor added.

"In the race, however, that is a disadvantage. The gap we had in FP3 was 0.7 seconds, we clearly managed to reduce it towards qualifying.

"Therefore, we are satisfied with this performance. However, the set-up that both our drivers have opted for will ensure that we will be more positive in the race than in qualifying."