P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen knows Red Bull must deliver more if it is to salvage the F1 constructors’ championship in which it currently trails McLaren by 41 points – in part due to the strong form of Oscar Piastri.
Max Verstappen has highlighted the need for improvements at Red Bull amid their struggles in defending the constructors’ championship, while also praising Oscar Piastri. Verstappen acknowledged Lando Norris as his closest championship rival and suggested that McLaren currently boasts the best driver duo in Formula 1, a sentiment echoed by McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown. Despite Verstappen’s ally Helmut Marko emphasizing McLaren’s driver strength, the critique seemed directed more towards Sergio Perez than the three-time champion. Verstappen refrained from labeling Norris and Piastri as the “strongest” pairing in F1 but admitted they form a “very strong team.” He commended Piastri’s performance in only his second F1 season, recognizing his consistent results and contribution to McLaren’s success. Verstappen emphasized the need for Red Bull to enhance their RB20 car to challenge McLaren, as the constructors’ championship battle intensifies with six races remaining.
