Verstappen driving with released tension: 'He's continuing to evolve,' says Red Bull boss

Red Bull boss Christian Horner said Max Verstappen's mindset has changed, and he has become a more complete and better driver since winning his first world championship last season.

In the 2021 Formula 1 campaign, Verstappen endured a huge battle between himself and Mercedes-AMG rival Lewis Hamilton to claim victory in the last lap of the season's final race to claim his maiden F1 world title.

During the current F1 season, things are very different, with Verstappen totally dominating at the halfway stage of the 2022 campaign. He currently is leading Ferrari's Charles Leclerc by 80 points. Plus, in the constructors' championship, Red Bull has a 97 points lead over second-placed Ferrari, with nine races remaining.

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Verstappen's released

In an interview, when asked by GPFans if Verstappen was any different from last year, Horner said: "I think in many respects it's released him.

"That expectation of needing to win your first world championship, he's achieved that. He has that on his CV now. Anything that he adds to that is a bonus.

"He's just become more rounded, more experienced and has handled the pressure incredibly well, which is remarkable for a 24-year-old. I think it's just generally; he's continuing to evolve."

With Verstappen making minimum mistakes so far this season and with regulations not set to change much, Horner foresees the Dutch driver winning more F1 crowns.

"Max is capable of winning many championships, and I think he's down to us to provide him with the equipment to do it," Horner added.

"He's doing a super job this year. Ferrari are tough competitors. They've also got two quick drivers. Mercedes are sorting