Max Verstappen downplays Red Bull's chances at season-opening Australian GP
What's the story
Defending Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has played down Red Bull Racing's prospects at the upcoming Australian Grand Prix.
He said the car is currently not as competitive as its rivals and is still grappling with some issues.
This season marks Verstappen's pursuit of a fifth consecutive drivers' title at Albert Park, amid questions about Red Bull's speed.
"I know that we are not the quickest at the moment," Verstappen told reporters at Albert Park on Thursday.
Here's more.
Acknowledgment
Verstappen acknowledges Red Bull's shortcomings
As mentioned, Verstappen admitted, "I know that we are not the quickest at the moment."
He further emphasized the unpredictability of Formula 1, stating, "If you would have asked that question here last year and at the end of the season again, it would look completely different. So a lot of things can always change quite quickly in Formula 1."
Reflection
Verstappen reflects on car improvements and challenges
Verstappen emphasized that his current car is an improvement from the one he drove to a sixth-place finish in Abu Dhabi's 2024 season finale.
However, he also admitted that there are still some issues to be worked on.
He said, "I guess we'll find out more this weekend and after. But we'll try to do our best."
"I mean, there's not really much more that we can do. I think [at] testing, there's not many days," he further added.
Memories
Verstappen's debut anniversary and reflections
Notably, the Australian Grand Prix also marks the 10th anniversary of Verstappen's Formula 1 debut at Albert Park.
Notably, He became the youngest driver to start a race at just 17 years and 166 days old, driving a Toro Rosso during the 2015 season.
Looking back at his journey, he said that if he could go back in time, he would not offer any advice to his rookie self.
2024 season
Recap of Verstappen and Red Bull's 2024 season
As mentioned, Verstappen is the reigning world champion.
During the 2024 season, the Dutch driver managed nine first-place finishes and ended up first with 437 points, leaving behind the second-place Lando Norris by 63 points.
Apart from his nine first-placed finishes as mentioned, he also managed five other podium finishes (four P2 and one P3).
Meanwhile, in the Constructors' Championship, Red Bull finished third with 589 points, as McLaren claimed their first championship in 26 years.