Verstappen ready to be penalized to help Honda's development

We knew Max Verstappen more annoyed when his progress on the track was slowed down by mishaps linked to the product on the back of his Red Bull. But we imagine that the investment made by the new partner of Milton Keynes, Honda, has something to soften morals. 

After identifying a problem with its quality control following a problem with Daniil Kvyat's propeller at Toro Rosso in China, the Japanese manufacturer has decided to change the internal combustion engine (ICE) on the four single-seaters it equips. 

The Sakura firm took the opportunity to introduce a new version of its in-house ICE, while the first engine developments were expected in Montreal. 

« The development made concerns more reliability, explained Verstappen from the capital of Azerbaijan. We also expect to gain a little in performance but it will not be really significant.

There is always room for improvement, which is why Honda is working hard to refine its concept. I’m glad they introduced a new engine. We will be able to use it for longer and the first model remains available ».

With only three ICEs allowed per driver for the entire season, Verstappen and his comrades in the Red Bull clan will likely have to exceed their annual quota and fall back on the grid at some point. Listening to the man who currently occupies 3rd place in the Drivers' championship after a very good start to the season, this does not pose a problem for him. 

« In fact, I'm super happy because Honda is doing everything to bring about developments, which is always a good sign, added Verstappen. I think I demonstrated last year that we could start from afar and make it back to the podium. Look at Austin for example. (Verstappen finished 2nd after starting at the back of the grid, Editor's note). 

I will be even happier if, at the end of the season, we have really closed the gap with Mercedes et Ferrari in terms of power. It doesn't matter if we use a few more engines ». 

The five-time Grand Prix winner admitted that Red Bull was still angling in a straight line, a grievance he has often made in recent years, openly targeting the engine Renault, but he says he is convinced of evolving closer to current references. 

« Ferrari has an advantage over everyone, noted Verstappen. I think we are closer to Mercedes now but it’s always difficult to really know because everyone is constantly improving. So far, we have managed to maximize the result in each race by finishing 3rd once and 4th twice without experiencing any retirements. Better that than winning a tenth to break all the time ». 

Perhaps we see evil everywhere, but we had the impression that the recurring MGU-K problems at Renault did not escape Verstappen's attention...