DECEMBER 28, 2015

Verstappen wants podiums in 2016

Max Verstappen has confirmed reports he is determined to "aim high" in 2016.

Max Verstappen has confirmed reports he is determined to aim high in 2016.

This year, the teenage Dutchman had one of the most memorable rookie seasons in the history of the sport, wowing with his overtakes and amassing an impressive tally of 49 points.

But he wants to double that feat for 2016, as Toro Rosso switches from its underpowered Renault to this year's specification of the Ferrari power unit.

When asked about that ambitious target, Verstappen told the Dutch broadcaster NOS: "Yeah, 100 points. You have to aim high, right?"

Just 18 years old, he said another target for 2016 is his first podium finish, which would smash the current record held by Sebastian Vettel, who was 21 when he finished a grand prix in the top three for the first time.

"For third place you would need a good engine," Verstappen explained. "First or second place I think is too much for now -- you also have to be realistic."

(GMM)