Verstappen doesn't care about comment: 'I don’t need Nico for that'

When Verstappen was asked at the press conference if he indeed notices that he has a better understanding of Hamilton's qualities now, he replied decisively: "Yeah, I don’t need Nico to make me realise how good Lewis is. I know he’s very good, otherwise you don’t win so many championships."

Rosberg was also critical of Verstappen's performance in Portugal on Sunday.

Verstappen enjoys the spectacle

Verstappen himself says he is enjoying the battle with Hamilton at the front of the field. "Yeah, I think it’s what everyone wants to see but of course what I want as well, because the last few years we have not been close enough so it’s a good start to the season, that’s for sure and I hope it can be like this for the rest of the season because it keeps everyone excited," adds the Dutchman in the press conference.

Verstappen knows he cannot afford any mistakes in the battle for the world championship. Currently he is eight points behind the British driver. Retirements will be disastrous, so Red Bull Racing must avoid them at all costs.