### Verstappen Questioned by Stewards for Potential Impediment to Russell in Qatar Qualifying

Formula 1 star Max Verstappen, currently a world champion, has found himself under scrutiny after being summoned to the stewards during the Qatar Grand Prix qualifying. The incident in question involves Verstappen allegedly driving too slowly and consequently obstructing George Russell during the critical Q3 session.

The Red Bull driver had secured his first pole position since the Austrian Grand Prix in June, but his approach during the final flyer raised concerns. Verstappen was on a slower lap, strategically positioning himself for a faster run, when Russell caught up with him in the turns 12-13-14 sequence. This forced Russell to take evasive measures, resulting in him skidding onto the gravel and expressing concerns over potential damage, which he described as "super dangerous" over the radio.

Verstappen defended his actions, stating he needed to create a gap due to two other cars ahead of him also slowing down. He suggested that Russell became overly eager in trying to overtake him. "There were two cars in front of me making a gap, so I had to do the same. I knew everyone was on a slow lap, not pushing," Verstappen remarked. He further added, "George got excited and wanted to pass and get around. Everyone tries to get the best position to start their lap."

George Russell, driving for Mercedes, countered Verstappen's explanation by emphasizing the importance of adhering to their instructed delta times. He claimed that his evasive actions to avoid Verstappen affected his performance, possibly contributing to the marginal 0.055-second difference in their final times. "I ended up going through the gravel, which felt like it scraped the floor. That might be why we didn't improve. It was a hairy situation just before starting the lap," Russell explained.

Christian Horner of Red Bull offered insights into the situation, acknowledging that all drivers were warming up their tires during the outlap, which is not timed. He noted, "They’re all jockeying for position to generate tire temperature. I think Fernando [Alonso] was also in that train of cars. This will go to the stewards, but hopefully, it should be all right."

The incident has brought an added layer of tension to the Qatar Grand Prix qualifying sessions, awaiting a final decision from the stewards on whether Verstappen will face any sanctions.