Verstappen unphased by high rate of Honda engine changes

©WRI

Max Verstappen isn't worried by the frequent engine changes undertaken so far by Honda at Toro Rosso, insisting they aren't a direct reflection of the Japanese manufacturer's lack of reliability.

The Red Bull Racing driver is obviously keeping a watchful eye on the junior bull squad given his team's switch to Honda power next year.

Both Brendon Hartley and Pierre Gasly have far exceeded the allowed limits for all their power unit components, but Honda's changes have often been the result of a tactical choice or circumstances rather than by component failures.

Verstappen says Red Bull 'two races behind' on engines

Regardless of the reasons, Verstappen isn't overly concerned.

"I don't think they have had a lot of issues," said the Dutchman.

"Most of the time, maybe they had a bad qualifying so then it doesn't really make a lot of difference for them to take a new component, so that's what they are doing.

"I'm not too worried. And they still have quite a few races coming up to understand the package, and for next year it's going to be a new engine, it's different.

"They learn from their mistakes, which is good. It's happening on other brands, not only Honda. So, I'm not too worried."

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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.