Max Verstappen’s impressive form will provoke a strong response from Daniel Ricciardo, according to Red Bull boss Christian Horner.
Ricciardo has faced a stern challenge from Verstappen since his promotion to the Red Bull squad in May.
Verstappen has out-performed the Australian in the last two races at the Red Bull Ring and Silverstone, with the results arriving after an impressive maiden victory in Spain.
Last weekend also saw the Dutch teenager out-qualify Ricciardo for the first time.
Ricciardo has unfortunately lucked out of two possible wins this season following a poor strategy call in Barcelona and a pitstop mix up in Monaco.
Although Ricciardo is frustrated by his recent run of form, Horner fully expects to see a reaction from the three-time grand prix winner.
“Daniel is a class driver,” said Horner. “He has demonstrated already this year that he is at the top of his game, and no team-mate likes being the second of the cars to finish.
“I am sure he will respond positively, but it is a positive thing in the team.
“They are just two guys going flat out, going for it, and it is very healthy for us.
“I’m sure he’s (Ricciardo) going to have a couple of Sundays come up where everything will fall his way – everything is swings and roundabouts.”
Talk of Verstappen’s arrival changing the dynamic at the Milton Keynes outfit has also been rebuffed by Horner.
The Red Bull team principal says his operation is focussing on closing the gap to the front running Mercedes squad.
“Obviously we have got two very strong drivers in the car and they are pushing each other hard, which is great to see,” he added.
“There is a confidence in the team that you can see is growing. The car is improving, and there are still areas that we can find time and performance.
“But we are actually in the race with Mercedes at certain circuits, which is great to see. And hopefully there are circuits coming up like the next one where we can get a bit closer still.”
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