Horner heaps praise on Albon after promising start to life at Red Bull

Before Brazil, Albon hadn't failed to finish outside the top six following the move to Red Bull Racing, his best result coming in Japan when he came through in fourth-place.

“He looked really comfortable racing world champions and it was a huge shame for him to lose that podium on the penultimate lap,” as quoted by GP fans.

"Lewis has obviously put his hand up and apologised but unfortunately it doesn’t get Alex’s podium back, but he can leave here with his head held high.

“OK, he didn’t get the trophy but he’s impressed the whole team with his performance and again, it’s an encouraging signal for next year.”

With one race remaining, Albon is eleven points behind Pierre Gasly and Carlos Sainz who are battling it out for sixth in the final standings.