Max Verstappen reacts to F1 engine trick rumour

Max Verstappen has asserted he is paying little attention to the rumours regarding an uncovered loophole with the new F1 power units.

It was recently reported that Mercedes and Red Bull found a trick with the new power units, with other teams moving to stamp out the loophole.

The FIA is hosting a meeting with power unit manufacturers on January 22 to discuss the matter as the new season ticks closer.

Rumours of the alleged advantage suggest the trick could offer an additional 15bhp - a significant figure as teams chase speed at the start of a new era of technical regulations. 

When asked if he feels like Red Bull has an edge heading into the season, Verstappen told Bloomberg: “It's impossible to know.

“Everyone is just trying everything they can and from our side, especially from my side, I have to focus on the driving. 

“I'm not there to be the engine technician will explain everything in detail to you. 

“At the end of the day, it's also something between the FIA and the engine manufacturers to sort out.

“I drive the car, and I trust that from our side, we always try to do our very best to get the most performance out of the engine.”

The new cars, which also have fresh aerodynamic rules, will take part in a behind-closed-doors test next week before heading to Bahrain for a duo of three-day tests.

Among the hopes for the new regulations, the aim of offering a boost in overtaking and wheel-to-wheel action was considered.

But Verstappen stated it is too early for answers: “It's a bit too soon to be able to say that, that it will be easier to pass. I have no idea. 

“Everything is still unknown. The cars look a bit nicer when they're a bit smaller and not as wide. 

“But once we get on track, then it's a bit easier to get a bit of an understanding of what is all happening and going on.”