Honda's recent gains a positive sign for 2019 says Verstappen

Max Verstappen says he has been impressed with the recent gains Honda has been able to make with their power unit. Red Bull will join Toro Rosso next season in being supplied by the Japanese manufacturer, bringing to an end the turbulent relationship with Renault.

Speaking to media after qualifying, Verstappen highlighted Toro Rosso's strong performance throughout the weekend and added he was looking forward to seeing what the new engine could do next season.

“I am very excited. They seemed pretty quick (in qualifying), so of course now we try to finish off the season in the best way possible, and the whole team is very motivated to start work on next year.

“With just the numbers and what they are doing on the dyno already in terms of preparation for next year, it looks very promising.”

The Dutchman also gave his thoughts as to why Honda had found performance with Toro Rosso despite the teams smaller stature when compared to McLaren, who quickly broke off the iconic partnership after three disappointing seasons with the engine supplier.

“Basically now they just did their own thing in making their own engine instead of the team telling them how to make the engine. They got a few people on board, and different management, so it looks very promising.

“A year ago it was a bit difficult to judge that, but that was always their intention.

"As always, you have to wait and see if they are going to succeed in that, but they are definitely heading into the right direction so I am very happy with that. The whole team is upbeat and very excited and motivated.”