Verstappen: 'Lack of engine parts frustrating'

Max Verstappen has bemoaned a lack of engine parts at Renault following his fifth-placed finish in the Brazil Grand Prix on Sunday, with the French manufacturer struggling to meet the demands of the engine replacements required by Red Bull and their second team, Toro Rosso.

The Dutchman, who claimed the flag in the Mexico GP two weeks ago, but it was at this event that Lewis Hamilton earned enough points to become Formula 1 championship winner, and with this sewn up, Renault are wary about producing more engine parts before the 2018 season.

He told De Telegraaf, "On the one hand I can understand that.

"But on the other, if you have so many problems with reliability during the season, then as a supplier you have to do what you can to have enough parts on the shelf.

"That just seems logical. It's frustrating but we also have to accept it."

The 20-year-old became the youngest Grand Prix winner in history in 2016 when he triumphed in the Spanish GP, and even with first place out of reach this season, Verstappen believes it is a shame that Renault is withholding new part production.

"After four very good races it's a bit of a pity, but you also have to be realistic. The car itself was good [in Brazil]."

The manufacturer has been embroiled in a spat with Red Bull's second team, Toro Rosso, this week, as due to the engine situation it is possible they could miss out in competing in the Abu Dhabi GP with parts becoming scarce.