Racepictures.com

F1 News

Verstappen warns paddock Red Bull aren't lying about 2019 title push

Verstappen warns paddock Red Bull aren't lying about 2019 title push

09-11-2018 09:55
2

Max Verstappen claims Red Bull are "not lying" when they say Honda will put the car into World Championship contention next season. Helmut Marko has insisted the team "must make Verstappen the youngest champion" and have "no excuses".

Honda hasn't made the podium since returning to F1. However, Pierre Gasly, who will gain promotion to Red Bull next season, finished 4th in Bahrain.

Marko's title claims came as a surprise to many, but Verstappen has backed him up suggesting the data shows they can match Mercedes.

"We're not lying or just putting something in the world which isn't true. It also depends on how much the other people are going to improve as well. We have to wait and see," Verstappen told Autosport.

The Dutchman also agrees with his boss how they'll lack pace in the opening few races of the season.

"For sure we will be closer. If it's going to be enough initially, I don't know. Then it's all about trying to get the best results possible, to not lose too many points initially," Verstappen added.

Verstappen, 21, will race in his 100th Grand Prix next season believes he does have the ability to win the 2019 championship.

"I think I can because I've done now almost four seasons, and Lewis [Hamilton] for example was fighting for a title in his first season," Verstappen concluded