Horner expects tough duel with Mercedes: 'Hamilton is at his peak'

For Red Bull Racing, 2021 will be an important year. Not only is it their last year with Honda as engine supplier, but this season also seems to be the season that Max Verstappen can fight for the title. According to Christian Horner there is a lot of pressure on Red Bull to succeed in this mission.

"I think becoming champion with Max would be one of our greatest achievements in Formula 1,because of the size of the challenge," Horner explained in conversation with Reuters. The team boss sees Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes as the top favourites for now, but Red Bull will do everything it can to bring that dominance to an end.

Perez will help Red Bull

"They are currently the titans of this sport. It would be one of our greatest achievements if we can beat them," Horner revealed. The Briton expects a fierce battle with Mercedes, as the German team has some records to break. "Lewis is the most successful driver of all time and has only just achieved those records and so is still at his peak," he said.

"He will be a great opponent this year and is therefore the absolute favourite to defend his world championship. We are still the underdogs, but will never give up". Together with acquisition Sergio Perez, Red Bull will have to beat Mercedes next season. "He is super motivated. He knows this is the biggest opportunity of his career and he is determined to grab it with both hands," Horner concluded.