Rivals alert as Verstappen concedes Red Bull problem remains

Max Verstappen has conceded that Red Bull's problem with riding kerbs is still not "under control", ahead of this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix. 

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is a happy venue for Verstappen, who secured his first career F1 victory at the track back in 2016. 

This weekend's race is viewed as absolutely pivotal by many, given that the traditional nature of the circuit is expected to suit Red Bull's RB20. 

It is seen as a Grand Prix which will decide whether there is a genuine title fight this season or whether Red Bull will once again cruise into the distance. 

Despite Verstappen winning the recent Canadian Grand Prix, Red Bull has looked weaker in the last three races. Given its recent difficulties, the reigning world champion is keen for a calm weekend in Spain.

"I hope so, yes," Verstappen told select media including RacingNews365, when asked if he is hopeful of a calm Spanish GP. 

"The last few races were quite difficult, but it didn't stop there. There were also a lot of problems during the weekend, so we are hoping for a Spanish Grand Prix weekend without too many problems."

Problems remain

The issue Red Bull is that a calm weekend in Barcelona will be a huge challenge, as it has failed to solve its issues with riding kerbs. 

Whilst riding kerbs is not crucial in the Spanish GP, not being able to do so comfortably will still have an impact on lap time. 

However, should Red Bull win this weekend with its current problems, then there is a strong chance its advantage will increase significantly once the issues are overcome.

"Of course, the problem with the kerbstones is something we haven't got under control, so that makes it very difficult," added Verstappen. 

"The same goes for the problems with the bumps. So there is really work to do in the hope that we can improve the car in that respect as well. 

"We also really do hope that we can pick up a big margin if we can get that problem under control."