Max Verstappen Slams New Madrid Circuit

Speaking to the media after qualifying, Verstappen stated: "I like the grip. They've done a good job with the asphalt, although in some places it's already too bumpy for a new track."

"The corners – you can't overtake. In some places, in the braking zones, they need to learn that you should never have to turn and brake at the same time, because that doesn't allow for any kind of overtaking."

"Certainly, in terms of track design, I think it could be better. I also believe that driver input in the future regarding track designs could help a lot."

"I know they'll always tell you: 'Yes, but the space.' But that's complete nonsense. There's always a way to find an overtaking opportunity on a track."

He added: "Also, how quickly they made the track available, the information that was shared for the simulator – in that sense, it's very good."

"But if you want to have a better race and more overtaking, there are a few corners that could be changed."

Asked how Sunday's race might unfold from his starting position, the Red Bull driver replied: "It's going to be tough. Let's say, in the best-case scenario, you're faster, but you can't overtake."

"There are no corners where you can overtake, so you have to rely on others having very serious tire degradation. It's going to be hard."

"The long runs here were very difficult, with high degradation for everyone, so that will probably be the key tomorrow, but even with that, I still need to find a corner to overtake."