Everyone wants a title battle – Max Verstappen challenges rivals to step up

Red Bull and their Dutch driver ran away with last season’s titles.

CHALLENGE EXTENDED: Red Bull driver Max Verstappen challenges rivals to step up. Picture: Carlos Perez Gallardo/Pool via AP

Max Verstappen has challenged Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes to raise their game and provide him with the championship battle that Formula One needs.

Verstappen ran away with last season’s title, winning 15 of the 22 races, to secure his second championship with four rounds to spare.