Verstappen: 'Mercedes are still the favourites'

In just a few days we're finally going to get a good understanding of where each team really lies in Bahrain's free practice sessions. Can Max Verstappen really challenge Mercedes for the world title? Or are we going to see Lewis Hamilton whistling to his record-setting eighth title?

In Red Bull Racing's preview of the Bahrain Grand Prix, Verstappen cites the well-run winter tests. "The test was definitely a positive start for us and you can always be happy when you have driven so many laps and get a good understanding of the car."

As he mentioned earlier, he does not want to venture into predictions. "It doesn't say anything about pure performance. I know people are excited and think we're just saying this, but Mercedes are still the favourites - how can they not be if they've won seven world championships in a row. I'm sure Mercedes also want people to think we're the favourites and put the pressure on us, but we're just focused on ourselves."

Favourite or not, Verstappen and his team are going for it again. "You can be sure that everyone on this team and at Honda is pushing to beat them [Mercedes] and anyone who might be quick this year," said a combative Verstappen. "I see every season as a new opportunity to beat them, but we would be stupid to expect that fight to be easy."