Max Verstappen dismisses McLaren threat: 'It's not even in my head'

Max Verstappen has dismissed the clear threat of McLaren in this weekend's Canadian Grand Prix, insisting the papaya outfit is "not even in my head". 

Verstappen heads into the race on the back of his controversial clash with George Russell in Spain, which has moved the Dutchman just one penalty point shy of a race ban. 

Despite the frustrations from Barcelona, the four-time F1 champion has an impeccable record in Montreal, where he has been victorious for the last three years.

Verstappen mastered mixed conditions last season following a strategic mistake by Lando Norris and McLaren; however, he is wary that the pecking order is very different now compared to 12 months ago.

Asked for his expectations for the weekend, speaking to media, including RacingNews365, he said: "Yeah, I mean, a bit different this time round. 

"If we can fight for a podium, fighting with Ferrari, Mercedes, that would be a good achievement."

Mercedes was the surprise package in Canada last season, with Russell in the hunt for victory after securing pole position.

The Briton was quickest in Friday practice, whilst Verstappen was only ninth, albeit after a set-up change between first and second practice. He is to revert to the set-up that resulted in him being quickest at the end of FP1, the first time this season he has topped a practice session.

Verstappen is more concerned about Mercedes rather than McLaren, noting that "they go fast everywhere".

He added: "It's not even in my head. I'm more focusing on the other teams where I know that, last year, for example, Mercedes was very strong here. 

"I think if you compare last year to now, maybe they'll be more competitive as well. So it will be hard enough to already fight for a podium."