How Verstappen is pushing Honda's performance

Honda F1 chief Toyoharu Tanabe has explained how Max Verstappen and Pierre Gasly's feedback has enabled the Japanese manufacturer to push for more power in 2019.

Huge scrutiny has been placed on the performances of Honda this year after Red Bull ditched Renault for their supply – ending a 12-year relationship that featured four world title doubles.

After a quiet start, the new partnership burst into life in Austria last weekend as Verstappen took victory at the Red Bull Ring.

It was Honda's first grand prix victory since 2006 and ended a 10-race run of Mercedes dominance stretching back to last season.

Although Verstappen and Red Bull are desperate to maintain momentum, Tanabe says the composure in the team is perfect for Honda.

Tanabe told RacingNews365: "Every driver has his own way of communicating with engineers, but ultimately they all want to win races.

"And so they want more engine power from me. But Max - just like Pierre Gasly - is very calm in our conversations.

"They tell what they notice and desire technically. If Max wants something, it motivates us. He is patient in his desires, full of understanding about the process."

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