Verstappen: What do you mean mentally?

The Dutchman, who is gearing up for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne this weekend, told The Guardian, "I never even think of the mental side of things because I never had any issues. If you are a bit weak in your head maybe you can train your mind but it will never be your strong point."

"Many people ask: What do you need mentally to succeed in F1? I say: What do you mean mentally? I just enjoy it and drive as fast I can. But so many people think your psychology is such a massive thing. For me, it's not necessary."

Verstappen had an incredible record in karting racing of 68 wins in his first 70 races which was massive for his confidence at a young age, "You always have to believe in yourself and I had that from karting."

"I was never one of those kids saying: Is it all going to be all right? If you start doubting yourself like that, thinking: Am I good enough? - maybe there is a reason you're thinking that."

Verstappen, who finished sixth in last year's championship with 168 points, says he is pleased with what he has seen of this year's car and even dares to hope it is better than the one which saw him finish last season with two victories in the last six races.

"I hope it will be better than that," said Verstappen. "I'm very happy with the progress but we have to wait until Melbourne to see where we are."

As for whether he will one day be crowned world champion, he is more circumspect, "I always think if I have the right car, the fastest car, then I can become world champion. But you need to have that car and so far I haven't had the fastest package."

Verstappen, son of former F1 driver Jos Verstappen, also revealed that growing up he had no racing idols, “I didn’t look up to any drivers. I had no pictures in my room. I was not admiring anyone. Of course with my dad being a driver I had a lot of respect for him. But I didn’t see my dad as an idol. He’s my dad.”