Max Verstappen says he has “no doubt” that Red Bull can produce the best car in Formula 1 and compete at the front of the pack in 2018.
Red Bull began 2017 adrift of the lead pack, amid correlation issues and engine deficiencies, but has made substantial progress, enabling Verstappen to triumph in Malaysia.
On Friday, Red Bull announced that Verstappen will remain with the team through to 2020 after agreeing a new deal, and the Dutchman has confidence in the operation’s ability.
“After a challenging year it’s a good feeling to sign a new contract and continue this strong relationship,” Verstappen said, following practice for the United States Grand Prix.
“I really believe in the team and they believe in me, we have a great working relationship and they gave me the chance to start a career in Formula 1.
“We have had our ups and downs this year but I still feel really good in the team, you can see they have been working really hard to improve and today shows that we are again competitive.
“I enjoy being in this team which is very important for me so that’s why I decided to extend my contract.
“If we can learn from what happened this year I have no doubt that this team can build the best car on the grid and start 2018 competing at the front.
“I have learnt a lot this year after what has happened, which is definitely positive.”
On Red Bull’s potential at the Circuit of the Americas, Verstappen said: “We showed good pace both in long run simulation and short stints so I think we have the ability to achieve a good result here.”
Verstappen finished second to Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton on Friday.
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