Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur has said that Red Bull is no longer in a “comfort zone” regarding its gap with the rest of the field.
The Milton Keynes-based team has dominated the competition in 2023, winning all but one race on its way to doubling its championship success.
However, they have already been beaten twice over the first six rounds this year, with Ferrari victorious in Australia before McLaren last won in Miami.
Lando Norris took his first race win in Florida, extending his opening stint before pitting under a timed safety car.
When asked if McLaren's win in Miami offered a glimpse into the rest of the season, Vasseur noted that not much has changed since the opening round.
“It's almost [been] “Like this from the beginning of the season depending on the track,” Vasseur told media including. Racing News 365.
“I honestly think Red Bull is still in the lead and Max probably could have won without the safety car story.
“I don't want to draw conclusions about this, however [he had] First place and they still have a small advantage.
Red Bull is no longer in the 'comfort zone'
While Red Bull has often been challenged via single-lap pace in 2023, its ability to win with long stings has been unrivaled, resulting in the most statistically significant season in Formula 1 history.
However, in Miami, Norris was able to extend the gap to Verstappen after the safety car, prompting Vasseur to notice the Red Bull's advantage shrinking.
“The reality is that, compared to last year, when we're able to do a good job and put everything together, we're getting there,” he said.
“It means we're putting them under a little bit of pressure [and] They have to be a little more aggressive with the strategy.
“They were no longer in the comfort zone last year where it didn't matter what happened – after the second lap they were in front. I think this will be a game changer in race management.
“I think this is an opportunity for us, because if we make one more small step, I think we'll be in a really good position to fight with them every weekend.”
