After struggling with setup issues through Australian Grand Prix practice, Max Verstappen was surprised by his Red Bull car's performance on Saturday as the Formula One defending champion took third place in qualifying for the season-opening race.

World champion Max Verstappen admitted he was "surprised" after qualifying third fastest for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix Saturday, but said he was feeling increasingly confident.The Red Bull driver struggled with grip on Friday,

Max Verstappen had been leading the world championship since the inception of the current ground effect era in 2022.

World champion Max Verstappen said his second place at the Australian Grand Prix Sunday was "a decent starting point" for the season, but admitted Red Bull still had work to do. I'm just very happy to bring it home,

Helmut Marko's bet did not pay off in Melbourne. Lando Norris managed to win the Australian GP, while the top advisor bet on Max Verstappen after the Saturday. Afterwar,ds he explained what he noticed in Australia to Sky Sports Austria.

Red Bull have decided to replace two parts on Max Verstappen's car entering Sunday's Australian GP. The Dutchman does not have to worry about a grid penalty however. On the other hand, Oliver Bearman will start from the pit lane after Haas' changes.