Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has concurred with Max Verstappen's claim regarding the team's position in the pecking order last year.
Verstappen won his fourth F1 title in 2024, finishing 63 points ahead of McLaren's Lando Norris who offered Verstappen a fight in the latter stages of the season.
It was McLaren who prevailed in the constructors' standings as Red Bull fell to third place, despite its success in the drivers' fight.
Verstappen claimed Red Bull did not have the fastest car for 70 per cent of the campaign, leaving him “proud” to have won out in a competitive season.
When Verstappen's statement was put to Horner, the Briton told media including RacingNews365: "I would say that's about right.
“Since Miami, I would say that was a turning point. The car was very difficult to drive, but he was able to adapt and get the most out of it.
“I think we've improved it in latter races, but certainly around Monza time, it looked like the championship was slipping away.”
Red Bull fell back in the pecking order following a strong start to the year, however Verstappen's consistent run of results ensured his championship lead was never under serious threat.
“Max has been the outstanding driver, absolutely,” Horner added.
“He’s part of the team, you win as a team and you lose as a team.
“He’s absolutely inspired within the cockpit and has head and shoulders been the best driver on the grid.”
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