Verstappen backs F1 world champion's return to Red Bull Racing

As McLaren continues to set the pace, Red Bull has taken just two victories through Max Verstappen so far this season.

The four-time world champion took victory in Japan and Imola, but has lacked the raw speed to keep up with McLaren consistently.

He is now clinging onto both McLarens in the world title fight after the opening 10 rounds of the year.

There could be a shake-up within the team as Helmut Marko is in discussions with Sebastian Vettel over a return to Milton Keynes.

Verstappen said in the press conference ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix that Vettel would be welcome to return to the team where he scored four world championships.

The Dutchman said: "I mean, it’s more than normal that someone that has achieved so much with Red Bull, has been brought up by Red Bull, that, in a sense, there’s always a spot available, right?

Vettel was a formidable Formula 1 driver, particularly in the V8 era, as he took four world titles at Red Bull.

The German floundered slightly at Ferrari and Aston Martin before retiring in 2022, making way for Fernando Alonso.

Vettel may suit a role at Red Bull as he knows the team inside out after coming through their ranks as a junior.

It would be an intriguing prospect to see Vettel back in the paddock with the team he delivered so much success.