80 Point Lead Not Enough As Max Verstappen Given Firm Warning

Max Verstappen would feel like he is in a much better place in this year’s title fight. After winning the blockbuster title fight against Sir Lewis Hamilton last year, Verstappen is enjoying a comfortable lead over second-placed Charles Leclerc.

The Red Bull driver has a healthy lead halfway through the season, but boss Christian Horner has fired a warning to rival Ferrari and Mercedes that Verstappen is yet to reach his peak. Horner said, “I think in many respects it’s [winning the title] released him,” 

“That expectation of needing to win your first world championship – he’s achieved that. He has that on his CV now. Anything that he adds to that is a bonus.”

Horner heaped praise on Max, stating he is an all-around package at such a young age.

The Red Bull boss added, “[Verstappen has] become more rounded, more experienced, and has handled the pressure incredibly well, which is remarkable for a 24-year-old.”

He added that the Red Bull ace is “continuing to evolve,” and believes he will get even stronger over the next few seasons.

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It is hard to fathom the fact that despite being only twenty-four years old, the Dutch prodigy has been in Formula 1 for eight years.

Max Verstappen warned not to take his foot off the pedal

Red Bull boss Christian Horner is not taking their lead for granted and has advised Max to do the same. The Brit boss believes the title race is far from over and expects their rivals to fight back with all guns blazing.

“He’s [Verstappen] doing a super job this year, Ferrari are tough competitors,” Horner said.

“There’s nothing that we take for granted, we have just got to keep that momentum running.”

Red Bull are currently enjoying a hefty ninety-seven points lead over Ferrari; and a further thirty points over last season’s champions Mercedes. With the season already halfway over, Red Bull will be looking to win their first constructor’s title in 9 years.

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The Formula 1 season resumes this week with the Belgium GP in Spa. Max Verstappen would be looking to add to his victory last year at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. Do you think Verstappen can defend his title this year?