Max Verstappen has issued Red Bull with a reminder that they need to address their issues if they are to remain in the title fight. The Dutchman suffered his second mechanical failure of the season at the Australian Grand Prix, whilst Charles Leclerc took another victory and extended his lead at the top of the Drivers' standings in the process. Verstappen, meanwhile, has now dropped down to sixth in the rankings following his latest retirement. His teammate Sergio Perez ensured that the outfit did not walk away empty-handed in Melbourne by finishing P2, and Verstappen acknowledges that this is at least a positive. "The speed was obviously not there, but in the end a second place is always better than nothing," Verstappen told Dutch broadcaster Viaplay .
Verstappen: Red Bull need to understand problems
Verstappen admits that Red Bull will now work at understanding the issues that have blighted them so far in the 2022 campaign. "Now we just have to get to work and try to get everything done better," he explained. "We also need to understand how it is with so many problems causing us to drop out every time. "Also in terms of speed it was not quite right, besides that also the tyre wear. There is quite a bit of work to do."
"I couldn't hold the speed compared to Ferrari"
In terms of how his race was unfolding in Australia prior to his retirement, Verstappen felt that he was unable to match the pace of Leclerc's Ferrari. This prevented him from attempting an overtake when he saw a brief opportunity following a Safety Car restart. "He had a little moment coming up the straight, but I didn't want to risk too much," Verstappen said. "I also knew they had more speed. Then you just have to drive your own race. "I felt I couldn't hold the speed compared to Ferrari. Maybe it was because of the new asphalt or the track, because in practice we didn't have huge problems "We'll see in Imola."
Verstappen warns Red Bull over title challenge
Verstappen will be hoping for better at the next race of the season, the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. However, he admits that Red Bull will need to work hard to ensure that they can remain in the championship battle. "There are quite a few things we need to fix," Verstappen continued. "We can't go for the championship like this."
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