Verstappen has message for competitors: 'Ready to test'

Max Verstappen is preparing for the first tests for the new season. This coming week he and the other Formula 1 teams can be found in Barcelona to further improve the RB18, as the new car is called. In Spain he took a sneak preview.

The Dutchman was already in Spain this week together with his father to drive the Verstappen family's GT car for the first time. That way Verstappen could not only get used to the Spanish sun, but he also had the opportunity to look ahead in peace.

On Instagram, he let himself be heard on Sunday by sharing some photos. These show Verstappen doing a good job on the track with his father at his side. The simple world champion gave his followers a clear message: "Ready for testing next week."

With the world title in his pocket, expectations will be high for Verstappen next season. The Red Bull driver will not have an easy time of it though, because the new regulations introduced by the FIA mean that the Austrian racing team will have to work hard to put a strong car on the track. For the time being Red Bull is keeping its findings to itself, while other teams have already come forward with things.