Verstappen clear on Red Bull's goal: 'That means Checo is ahead'

Perez priority of Red Bull in Abu Dhabi

After a disappointing weekend in Brazil, Red Bull seems to be the big favourite for victory again this weekend. Verstappen therefore finds it difficult to say which of the rival teams can start making things difficult for him. "I think, from our side, we looked good in FP2 with the long run and it seemed like both Ferrari and Mercedes seemed to struggle a little bit more at the time," says the Dutchman.

However, he adds that both teams were able to make changes ahead of qualifying and it will only become clear in the race how they stand. For Red Bull, the goal on Sunday is clear: "I think as a team, we just need to stay ahead of them, that's very clear, because that means that also Checo is ahead in the championship," Verstappen stressed.

Verstappen surprised by gap to Mercedes

Earlier, Lewis Hamilton expressed his surprise at the gap to Red Bull Racing in qualifying for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Verstappen is also somewhat surprised by the W13's lack of pace, especially given the strong performance Mercedes showed in Brazil.

"Honestly it is a bit of a mystery, but even for us we didn't expect to be so slow in Brazil," nuances the two-time world champion. At the same time, he does take into account that Mercedes might be stronger in the race than in qualifying. "Who knows, maybe they focus more on the long run and sacrifice a little bit of one lap performance. You never know," Verstappen said.