Max Verstappen believes he has matured a lot in 2019 compared to 12 months ago.
Verstappen endured a scrappy start to 2018 but since the Monaco Grand Prix last season, he has reemerged as a real threat in Formula 1, with focused driving and level-headedness despite not having the fastest car.
This season, Verstappen has almost regularly out-performed either one or both Ferrari's despite having the lesser package with it being Red Bull's first full season with Honda power.
Speaking ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, a race he finished second in last season, the Dutch driver explained that he felt his experiences last year helped him develop quickly.
"I've matured, that's true, and not just because of last year's accident," he's quoted by La Presse.
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"It's also true in my life in general. I'm getting older, I have more experience in life, but it's also true that sometimes you have to make mistakes before you get better. That's what happened to me, I think."
Verstappen also added that he was positive of Red Bull's future chances this year that the team could race with Ferrari and Mercedes despite not having the complete package yet.
"Ferrari and Mercedes still have the advantage, but we are closer each race. I think we will often be competitive this season.
"The goal is of course to win, which would be a great reward for all members of our team and for the Honda people who are working very hard to get there."
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Belgian Grand Prix
Overview
Friday 17.07.26
Practice 1
11:30 AM
Practice 2
03:00 PM
Saturday 18.07.26
Practice 3
10:30 AM
Qualification
02:00 PM
Sunday 19.07.26
Race
01:00 PM
Friday 17.07.26
Practice 1
Fri 11:30 AM
Practice 2
Fri 03:00 PM
Saturday 18.07.26
Practice 3
Sat 10:30 AM
Qualification
Sat 02:00 PM
Sunday 19.07.26
Race
Sun 01:00 PM
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