When the chequered flag come out at the Australian GP, Max Verstappen was only a few tenths behind race winner Lando Norris.
However, this small gap was only thanks to a combination of floor damage Norris picked up and a late Safety Car.
Red Bull were nowhere near McLaren in terms of raw pace, with the MCL39’s tyre degradation putting it in a league of its own in Albert Park.
After the race, Verstappen made clear he did not expect to contend with the papaya team unless the RB21 improved.
Eight rounds later, the Dutchman is still within striking range of the McLaren duo – with the promise of closing the gap further after the FIA’s technical directive.
However, the 4-time Champion is less bullish about the impact of these changes than his team principal – Christian Horner.
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