Verstappen explains reason for qualifying crash

Max Verstappen has explained that a software glitch caused his crash during qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix. The Dutchman says that a 150bhp power surge was the reason for his spin which ended his day prematurely in the barrier.

The Red Bull driver had already set a lap time which was good enough to see him get into the second session in qualifying. However, after going for another fast lap, he spun on the kerb and was sent into the gravel, before coming to a halt after hitting the wall.

"It was unfortunate," the 20-year-old reflected. "I studied the data and suddenly we had a 150 horsepower increase which is a bit odd because the corner is not flat out so you are just juggling the throttle.

"It was like an on and off switch and suddenly is span the rear tyres up quite aggressively and I spun. I didn't expect it at all. 150 horsepower when you think you are on the limit is quite a lot. It should be alright tomorrow. Up to P5 should be alright. A little bit of luck with a Safety Car would be nice."

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner also voiced his disappointment but is expecting the three-time Grand Prix winner to climb back through the field on a track that is kinder for overtaking.

"The damage is fairly superficial. It's not damaged the chassis but it's annoying it's happened then in qualifying. He looked quick this morning and it's an opportunity lost today but he will get his head down tomorrow and race hard. This track you can overtake at so we will see.