Verstappen targets Mercedes and Ferrari

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When he switched to Red Bull Racing earlier this season, Max Verstappen considered 2016 to be a year of learning but it doesn't appear the Dutch prodigy really has much to ingest given his spectacular form and race results.

Verstappen concluded his British GP weekend with a second podium finish in succession, outperforming again team mate Daniel Ricciardo whom he also outqualified for the first time this season at Silverstone.

While his ability to adapt to his new environment and his performance level have been remarkable, Verstappen believes two targets remain to be fulfilled between now and when the championship concluded in Abu Dhabi in November.

"I try to do the best I can in every race, and now it’s again on the podium," said the 18-year-old on Sunday.

"So two races in a row and I think that’s very good, if only we can keep going like this and we can close the gap to Mercedes.

"I think that’s our main target, and we still have to overtake Ferrari as well in the Constructors’ championship. I think those are our first targets, to overtake them and then close the gap."

Fans and spectators basking in the rain or shine on Sunday around Silverstone were treated to an incredible display of car control and speed by the driver of Red Bull n°33. The tricky conditions played perfectly into the hands of Verstappen who admits to being no stranger when it comes to rain.

"In general, I have always enjoyed tricky conditions, especially in the rain. We have a lot of rain in Holland as well so in go-karting, you had a lot of time to practice that.

"If you have a great car you can make the difference and I think we definitely did today, I was definitely enjoying myself and even when we went onto the slick tyres I definitely had some fun.

"The pace was good and it was of course very tricky in turn one as you could see but that’s all part of it and at the end, great fun."

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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.