This season, Red Bull’s pilot Max Verstappen suffers from a miserable reliability which penalises him heavily in the Formula One standings. However, his lack of results has another cause according to him.
When asked could he be a world champion if he was driving for a Ferrari or a Mercedes? “I am 100% convinced of this,” Verstappen replied.
“I think we underestimated the competition. Then we had correlation problems with the wind tunnel. Now we have to catch up and be ready for next year.
“It’s hard to predict what will happen in Formula One. I can only promises that we will do our best to build best car. I believe in my team and our technical team to get there, but we need to have a complete package to achieve our goals.” Verstappen added.
The Dutch driver is clearly aiming Renault, who is still not at the level of Mercedes or even Ferrari team so far. “Renault is working very hard to solve their technical problems and try to get the most out of the package.” Verstappen said.
“But I’m not involved in development. I am honest and straightforward, the only thing I want is a car capable of winning.
“This is not a funny wish. I have a lot of confidence in myself because if that were not the case, I wolud always drive kartings.” he added.
Although he has been beating his team-mate Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo in qualifying 10-4, Ricciardo has a lot more success in the championship so far.
Verstappen scored 68 points this season against 162 points for Ricciardo. And this inevitably an impact on his morale.
Daniel Ricciardo has a lot more success in the championship than Max Verstappen after Singapore GP. (Source:www.crash.net)
“Of course, one side of the garage is happier than the other, because of all the difficulties we had on my car. But in general the atmosphere in the team is improving day by day.” Verstappen said.
“Especially if we compare our current situation with that of Melbourne. The car goes faster, we are more and more competitive.
“I’m just trying to stay positive. I have to see the positive aspects of the season: it was always during qualifying, the speed is there. Even in the race, I was always in good form before I knew anything.” the 19-year-old driver added.
No matter what team Verstappen is in, as long as he wins. Ferrari and Mercedes have probably understood what the message.