Verstappen favourite for podium: "He clearly has a lot more pace on us"

Max Verstappen has been on the podium every time since the Styrian Grand Prix. A series of six podium finishes so far, out of seven races held this season. In Italy, the chance of a podium for the Dutchman seems a little less obvious than in previous races.

Verstappen still has the best chance

Verstappen starts the Italian Grand Prix from a fifth place on the grid, which offers enough chances of a podium place after 53 laps. However, Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez, who are starting for Verstappen, also seem to be good candidates for the podium on Sunday.

However, according to Sainz, Verstappen remains a favourite for the last spot on the podium. "Looking at the last few races, that podium should be there for Max to have it. He clearly has a lot more pace on us on race trim and he's the only car in the race that can keep up with the Mercs and for us that is impossible," says Sainz to Sky Sports F1.

Attack of Renault

Daniel Ricciardo, starting the race in seventh place, still thinks he has a chance to make it to the podium in Italy. "Our car in the race is strong, so I'm confident we can pick it up a bit and have a good one," he says to Sky Sports F1.