Max Verstappen believes that Aston Martin got closer to Red Bull at the Canadian Grand Prix following the introduction of new upgrades.
Aston Martin brought a modified engine cover and floor to the Montreal event as it looks to continue its strong 2023 form.
After finishing seventh in the Constructors’ Championship last year, Aston Martin has often possessed the second-fastest car this season.
Fernando Alonso has scored six podium finishes in the opening eight races, including a second place in Montreal last weekend.
Speaking after the race, seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton commented that Aston Martin took a step ahead of Mercedes at the event.
And Verstappen believes that the Silverstone-based team has got closer to Red Bull.
“Well, from our side, like I said, I don’t think it was our best day, because of the tyre temps and stuff,” he said.
“So that doesn’t help. But I also know that with their updates, they naturally of course improved. So, for sure, they got closer to us.”
Although Red Bull prevailed at the race in Canada, its deficit was smaller compared to other races this year.
Verstappen complained about a lack of grip during the race and admitted that he was kept on his toes by his rivals behind.
“[I was] not worried [about Alonso and Hmilton’s pace] but you are alert because you keep checking: is he catching or not?” Verstappen said.
“What do I need to do, because at the beginning of the race when he pass Lewis, OK, let’s see what his pace is and then initially it was quick and then I could manage my pace around it.
“And then on the Hard tyres, I think the beginning was good, like I was creating a bit of a gap but then I started to struggle with my tyres a little bit so it’s constantly just talking to your engineers, seeing of course on the pit board what’s happening.
“You can’t relax too much, and especially today with the tyres being so cold, you have to be on it all the time, especially also here a street circuit. A tiny mistake is big lap time lost or you’re in the wall.”
