Horner: 'Dirt on Verstappen's tyres gave Lewis breathing space'

Christian Horner is disappointed Max Verstappen was unable to take the lead in the world championship in Bahrain. The Red Bull Racing team boss did enjoy the result, although he is of course disappointed that Verstappen had to let his great rival Lewis Hamilton pass him after an off-track overtake.

"Congratulations to Mercedes. It was a good race today. Different strategies as Toto says," Horner looked back in a conversation with Sky Sports on the first Grand Prix of the season. Mercedes have managed to rebound nicely after the mediocre winter tests two weeks ago. "They definitely have a very good car and are able to push us hard in the first stint and then the option for us to go longer."

Especially in the first stint, Hamilton was also very competitive. The Brit pitted early, which led Red Bull to opt for a longer stint. He ended up behind the seven-time world champion as a result and problems with the differential didn't make things any easier.

Horner on Verstappen problems

"Max was nursing an issue from early on and the effect it had. I don't know. It was great racing and then, unfortunately, he got the pass and got run out wide there and was instructed to give the place up. Max got some dirt on the tyres there and had a moment with a couple of laps to go and that gave Lewis breathing space. Great race," Horner concluded.