Verstappen concedes Red Bull 'work' required as dominance threatened

Max Verstappen has set his sights on winning this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix, but has warned Red Bull that "work" is required after a "tricky" race in Silverstone. 

The Dutchman heads to the Hungaroring having gone two races without a win for the first time since mid-2022. On top of this, failure to secure victory this weekend would result in the first time Verstappen has gone three races winless since 2021. 

McLaren and Mercedes are threatening Red Bull through impressive developments, with the Milton Keynes-based outfit's dominance being at severe risk. 

In Silverstone, both of Red Bull's rivals had stronger pace, leaving the Austrians in a rare third in the pecking order. 

Verstappen recognises Red Bull need to extract more performance from the RB20 this weekend, in the circuit often described as being similar to Monaco but without the barriers.

"Hungary is an interesting track and we are looking forward to racing there this week," said Verstappen. 

"The circuit is very narrow and twisty and has a very technical second sector; it will also be quite a bit warmer this week too. 

"Silverstone was a tricky race for us: although we made all the right calls, we still have a lot to work and improve on going into the second half of the season."

Verstappen targeting success

Verstappen is the only driver to have won the Hungarian GP since the current regulations were introduced in 2022. 

He defeated both McLaren and Mercedes last season, who offered Red Bull a significant challenge – Lewis Hamilton started on pole position. 

In preparation for the 13th round of the campaign, Verstappen has conducted positive simulator sessions and made his debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed as part of a 20th-anniversary Red Bull celebration. 

"I have been back at the factory with the Team on the sim preparing for the upcoming race, which has been good," Verstappen added. 

"We have also been at Goodwood, marking 20 years of Red Bull and celebrating everyone who has been a part of the team’s history. 

"Finally, we had a brilliant race in Hungary last year and have good memories here as we achieved 12 wins in a row. 

"Hopefully, we can have a great race again this year and achieve another good team result."