Max Verstappen: We have to be perfect in Qatar

      Red Bull Racing noted that the upcoming Qatar Grand Prix will be Max Verstappen's 90th race with the number "1" on the nosecone of his car. At the same time, the four-time world champion still has very real chances of another title.

      Max Verstappen: "After the Las Vegas round our points deficit was reduced; however, preparing for the Qatar Grand Prix we are keeping the same approach we have always used: you have to treat every race separately. Each weekend we aim to score as many points as possible and try to get the maximum efficiency out of the car – that is exactly how we intend to operate during the Qatar event. The weekend programme includes a sprint, which is an opportunity to earn even more points, and we must execute perfectly. Losail is a demanding circuit, and the hot weather means a sensible approach to tyre management is crucial, so we must ensure we do everything correctly; among other things, the race will have to be run with two mandatory pit stops. We'll try to maintain the momentum we've built; the team is determined to do everything possible to deliver the best result we can."

      Yuki Tsunoda: "I am preparing for the Qatar round knowing that if luck is on my side this weekend I can perform more successfully. I believe that if everything comes together as it should, I will be able to show good pace behind the wheel to deliver for the team the result we deserve. The sprint format offers a chance to score more points, which is crucial for us to achieve the objective we have in the Constructors' Championship. However, there are difficulties because there will be little time to find the right set-up. The weekend in Austin also included a sprint, and I performed reasonably well then, so I hope things will go well this time too, after which we will need to perform well in the main qualifying and the Sunday race. We all must work together to make that happen. Max is back in the title fight and has very real chances, so I will do everything I can to help him."