# Verstappen explains soft tyre choice

> Max Verstappen avoided soft tyres in second practice due to rain concerns.
- Title: Verstappen explains soft tyre choice · RaceFans | Shortify
- Summary: Max Verstappen avoided soft tyres in second practice due to rain concerns. Max Verstappen skipped soft tyres in second practice to prepare for potential…
- Keywords: max verstappen, red bull, ferrari, mercedes, formula 1, bahrain grand prix, malaysia, practice session, sports, cars, Verstappen, explains
- Source: RaceFans — https://racefans.net/2026/10/02/verstappen-explains-why-he-did-not-run-soft-tyres-in-second-practice
- Published: 2026-10-02T10:23:34+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: max verstappen, red bull, ferrari, mercedes, formula 1, bahrain grand prix, malaysia, practice session, sports, cars
## Verstappen's practice choice
Max Verstappen skipped soft tyres in second practice to prepare for potential rain.
## Verstappen's tyre strategy
He ran medium tyres in second practice but avoided switching to soft compounds.
## Verstappen's result
Verstappen fell to fourth place in second practice.
## Team performance
Red Bull scored its best result of the season after strong practice sessions in Malaysia.
## Oscar Piastri's view
Oscar Piastri noted Red Bull's pace but expects Mercedes to improve.
## Team comparison
Piastri said Red Bull and Mercedes are close, with Ferrari strong in practice.
## Key takeaway

Max Verstappen skipped soft tyres in second practice to prepare for potential rain, falling to fourth place.