Max Verstappen opportunities spied after making McLaren look 'silly'

Former F1 test driver Matteo Bobbi has highlighted races later this year where Max Verstappen could once again offer a challenge to McLaren.

The Dutchman dominated the Italian Grand Prix on Saturday, crossing the line over 19 seconds ahead of Lando Norris.

It was a dominant display for Verstappen, who took only his third victory of the year in a season that has largely been controlled by McLaren.

Speaking exclusively to RacingNews365, Bobbi, who also works at Sky Italy, reiterated Toto Wolff's praise for Verstappen's drive.

“I think what he did is outstanding,” Bobbi said. “I was on an interview with Toto Wolff and he said that this weekend, only one driver makes the other silly.

“That was Max, the way they try to have more speed, cutting the rear wings in FP3, only Max can drive that kind of wings.

“He showed why he’s the best out there.”

Bobbi has suggested upcoming street tracks could also work in Red Bull's pursuit to add more wins to its tally this year.

“I think they found something, but when the temperature is really up, McLaren has an advantage, on the tyres especially.

“Maybe Singapore will be good for McLaren. McLaren says Baku and Las Vegas, they are probably not going to be fast enough.

“So maybe there are opportunities again.”

Red Bull's success at Monza came as a surprise as it endured one of its most difficult weekends at the Italian venue 12 months ago.

Having started this year's Monza weekend on the back foot, Red Bull made a significant alteration to its wing level ahead of qualifying.

Bobbi praised the combination of the changes and Verstappen's driving abilities to produce one of the most dominant results of the year. 

“This year, they have a better package for a low-downforce track,” Bobbi explained. “In FP1 and FP2, they were fast - and not enough on the straight.

“That’s why Max in the last 20 minutes in FP3 decided with the team to try with these really extreme rear wings, trimming all the edge of the wings.

“It was difficult to drive. He was saying on the radio that it was on the edge everywhere, especially in sector two.

“In qualifying, he put it all together. [The race] was incredible, because there was no way for the others.

“Unfortunately, it's too late [for the title], but it still makes the race super nice.”