P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen insists he is not thinking about where Red Bull’s place in the current F1 pecking order is.
Max Verstappen said he is “not worried” about Red Bull’s position in the F1 hierarchy after the first Bahrain test, as he has “no idea” where they stand. Despite not topping a day’s running, Verstappen completed a solid total of 197 laps in the RB22 out of Red Bull’s 337 laps. Other teams like Mercedes acknowledged Red Bull as the benchmark, creating a competitive field with McLaren and Ferrari. Verstappen emphasized the uncertainties of testing, including engine modes and fuel levels, and preferred to focus on their reliability than speculate about their speed. He expressed a relaxed attitude toward the situation, eager to continue driving and await the season opener in Melbourne.
