Much of Verstappen's annoyance stems from the fact that someone had the temerity to try and overtake him. It was Verstappen's choice to drive into it. In other words, exactly what happened as Russell closed the door and left a Red Bull-sized hole on the outside. The Dutchman would no doubt argue that Russell should not have been there as it was a dangerous move to attempt - and the guy ahead would simply squeeze you out of room.

Imagine for a second that the roles on the opening lap were reserved and Verstappen was sending it up the inside at Turns 2 and 3, with Russell attempting to go around the outside - always a risky move on a street circuit. To get away with maximum points was the main objective, but obviously we know that tomorrow is the main race. 'It was good, with this tricky sessions, there's been a lot of pressure on us, the teams, engineers, mechanics and drivers. There is a favourable series of tracks coming up for Perez - he must eat into Verstappen's lead further and needs to start tomorrow by getting his elbows out and getting past the #1 at the start. Job done, and Verstappen's championship lead is down to 12 points. He breezed past after the Safety Car restart and that was that. Getting ahead of Verstappen in Sprint Shootout qualifying was crucial, as the lone Ferrari of Charles Leclerc was a sitting duck out front, especially given Red Bull's straight line speed advantage and DRS strength. It is to do with how he applies the throttle to minimise wheel slip - and on a track filled with 90 degree corners and heavy traction zones, it is a crucial skill to master. Not only is it a street circuit at which he excels, but the Mexican has long been regarded as one of the best on the grid at looking after his tyres. There is a reason why Sergio Perez has more podiums than any other driver at the Baku City Circuit - four and counting.

Carlos is gonna get it by kevin emerson