Max Verstappen has admitted his surprise over the three victories Red Bull has achieved this year following its slow start to the campaign.
In the first half of the year, Verstappen scored the odd podium but could not consistently produce a fight at the front of the field.
Verstappen was also heard regularly complaining about the balance of his car, with the situation so troubling that he was heavily linked with an exit from Red Bull.
However, Verstappen has enjoyed a much stronger run of form since the return after the summer break and has featured on the podium at the last seven grands prix, which include three victories.
"It was amazing to get the win in Mexico and huge credit goes to the team," Verstappen said.
"The last few weekends have been a lot more promising and I didn't think I would be winning three races this year.
"This is a hugely positive step in the right direction as we head to the final few races."
[Article continues below]
Verstappen targeting another 'solid weekend' in Brazil
Next up on the schedule for Verstappen is the Sao Paulo Grand Prix around the Interlagos Circuit.
It's a track Verstappen has won at three times in his career, with his most recent triumph coming in 2024.
Previewing the event, Verstappen said: "I always look forward to going to Brazil. It is a fantastic place and is obviously pretty special as my family in law are there.
"The track has been good to me in the past and we have had a lot of great drives and good memories, so I hope we can have another solid weekend.
"I'll be wearing my special helmet in Brazil, with the design to be something nice for the fans and to show what a special place this is for me. It's a cool track to drive and I'm excited to be back here."
Also interesting:
Join RacingNews365's Ian Parkes, Samuel Coop and Nick Golding as they look back on Mexico City but also look ahead to this weekend's São Paulo Grand Prix! Kimi Antonelli become world champion is a lead discussion, as is the latest Ferrari drama!
Rather watch this episode? Then click here!
Most read
In this article
Never miss a thing from the Formula 1 season! Add the 2026 F1 schedule to your calendar at the touch of a button. Subscribe below and put the dates and times of every race directly on your PC or smartphone, so you don't miss a second from the new season.
Download the F1 calendar Download the F1 calendar
A variant with just the race and qualifying is also available.
Click here to download it..












Join the conversation!