Verstappen: "We struggled a lot on the long runs, it's worrying for the race"

In the opening minutes of the second practice session in Mexico City, most of the drivers were on the medium-compounds. At that point, Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was the fastest on the track.

However, midway through the session, the drivers tested the softer tyres. Max Verstappen, on the red-badged tyres, clocked a 1:17.392 to take the lead from Leclerc and finish the session in first place.

Evaluating the session, the Red Bull pilot stated that although the car performed well in a single lap, it had problems in long runs.

"We achieved a good time on the short lap we did on the soft tyres," said Verstappen.

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

Photo: Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

"Everything else was pretty bad, I would say. The short run we did with the medium compound wasn't very good either, but the real problem is in the long runs."

"We really struggled there. That's a serious concern for the race, of course."

"It's not so much the poor balance that's the problem, but the complete lack of grip."

"As soon as you go on a long drive, the tyres overheat and the grip disappears. At that point, you're not going anywhere."

"I think it will not be easy to resolve this situation, but we will see," he said.