Mercedes are in awe of Verstappen: "Quite a skilled boy, isn't he?"

Mercedes seemingly glided straight towards their sixth consecutive but they faced some strong competition from Ferrari and Aston Martin Red Bull Racing in the second part of the F1 year. Andy Cowell, who manages the Mercedes engine department, is impressed. 

In a recent Motor Sport Magazine podcast, Cowell answers the question as to whether he, as an engineer, thinks it is a shame that the engine regulations for 2021 will remain virtually the same. He admits that this makes his work less exciting, but the opposite applies to sport.

“It is a good thing that the four manufacturers are getting one step closer together. This is how Honda has improved the most this year, they are far ahead of Ferrari when it comes to development speed. Let's have a good fight with the same rules before we come up with a new one for 2026," he said. 

Verstappen also plays a role in this

Thanks to their cooperation with Red Bull Racing, Honda has worked its way up from the slowest engine on the grid, to a race winner who wants to fight for the championship next year. Is Red Bull Honda, therefore, the biggest threat to the position of Mercedes?

“I think they are both impressive [Honda and Ferrari]. They have both owners who are keen to win and not just participate. In addition, Red Bull is able to build a championship-worthy car and Max Verstappen is also awesome. Quite a skilled boy, isn't he?"