Verstappen unfazed by potential Red Bull- Honda deal

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Max Verstappen is shrugging off the prospect of a deal between Red Bull Racing and Honda for 2019, at least for now.

Amid the convoluted agreements and engine supply swap deals between McLaren and Toro Rosso and Renault and Honda, a report from Motorsport.com is alleging that Renault will part ways with Red Bull Racing, which in turn will likely turn to Honda power from 2019.

The complicated state of affairs and the potential prospect of racing with a Honda engine in his back isn't worrying Max Vesrtappen.

"At the end of the day I am not making that decision. I know I am driving with a Red Bull Renault next year and then we will see," says the Dutch teenager.

Renault and Red Bull heading to a split?

"First we need to see what I am doing in 2019. I am not worried about it. I want to focus on the beginning of 2018 and see how competitive we are.

"It could be that Honda next year is very competitive, but I don't know what is decided for the future," he said.

"We just have to wait and see. I just want to see what will happen at the beginning of 2018 and then we will know…"

Turning to his race prospects, Verstappen is confident of securing a good result.

"I think if we look to Monaco where our car was not as good as it is now, we were already quite competitive – especially in the race," he said.

"So I am definitely looking forward to the weekend. We can be strong, but we need to get the setup right for sure. I really think we can be a threat."

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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.