Verstappen frustrated with 'problems that shouldn't happen'

It was a difficult day for Max Verstappen which saw the Red Bull driver hindered by a series of annoying and costly technical issues.

Following an electrical problem in the FP3 session which deprived Verstappen of track time, the Dutch driver complained of engine cut-outs and gearbox issues inqualifying which impacted his performance.

"It's not really nice to be fifth," he said.

"Of course, the problem in P3 was not ideal. But also in Q2 I had some problems going to the limiter – the engine was cutting out a bit. So that was not good.

"Then in Q3, my final lap, which of course counts, I was three tenths faster than my previous one then I lost gear synch, so on the straights I was losing a lot of time, which is of course very painful.

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"We need to get on top of that, because it shouldn't happen. A lot of issues.

"I'm a bit disappointed with fifth, even though with all the issues, we should have been third."

Red Bull engine partner Renault has implemented a software update which has slightly boosted the output of its power unit, much to Verstappen satisfaction.

"You can see there is a bit more horsepower, that's good, but we always want more!" he said.

"We definitely made a step forward here, with all the long straights. Second sector, where all corners are, we are in the fight – so that's good."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.