Verstappen: Red Bull car has gone backwards

Max Verstappen says Red Bull's slight regression in 2019 is simply down to the RB15 not being as good as last year's car. Verstappen has come third or fourth in all six races so far this year, but has not been in true contention for victory at any.

Although Verstappen crossed the line second in Monaco last time out, he had raced with a time penalty hanging over him for the most part.

Verstappen has regardless driven well, often getting beyond the maximum out of his car.

However, by this time last year, Red Bull had won two grands prix – ending the year with four race wins and seeing another, in Brazil, robbed as Verstappen collided with Esteban Ocon.

Making things all the more frustrating for Verstappen is his view that Honda has matched Mercedes' engine output this year, meaning Red Bull's backwards step is down to the team within.

"It is very easy. We just do not have such a good car as last year. Overall, the car is not as good like last year," he told Ziggo Sport .

"In terms of power, I think we are closer to Mercedes , but the car is certainly no better Mercedes right now.

"We're losing too much time on that. Honda is doing well, but now we just have to look at the team and improve the car."