French engineer comments on F1 competition

A 51-year-old French engineer, who leads a racing team that has won eight constructor titles and six driver titles, including four for Dutch driver Max Verstappen, said in an interview with AFP at the Singapore Grand Prix that "there is no secret weapon, no magic in the sport" of automobile racing.

Team's current standing and goals

The team is currently fourth in the provisional standings with 306 points. When asked if it is possible to surpass McLaren (third with 317 points) or even Ferrari (second, 418 points) by the end of the season, the engineer responded that "the competition is very difficult, the others are just like us, we are not better than them."

Progress and challenges in car development

When asked what has been achieved throughout the season to make the car competitive again since this summer, the engineer noted that "it is normal in F1 to start with a car that you are not necessarily satisfied with." The team faced challenges such as being overweight and focused on improving the car through weight goals, aerodynamic and mechanical upgrades.

The nature of performance in F1

The engineer added that "performance is never global, but relative to others, so it is difficult to judge." He emphasized that "there is no magic in this sport, only bad surprises! You think you are doing well and finally it does not work exactly as you want."

Verstappen's future and Hadjar's adaptation

Regarding whether the successful development of the car has convinced Max Verstappen to re-sign with Red Bull, the engineer said it is more about the team's mindset and desire to win. On French driver Isack Hadjar, he noted that "he is adapting well" and that the new technical regulations have helped him integrate into the team more easily.