Damon Hill believes the stronger pressure from Max Verstappen’s rivals has forced the Dutchman to try to get more out of his car.

Verstappen has largely breezed to frequent victories over the last three years but is now facing better competition for those wins.

Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc are among the drivers who have improved their consistency recently.

Verstappen struggled during practice but went on to win the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

Hill said: “The other teams are catching up. That is definitely the case.

“The comfortable advantage that Max has enjoyed over the last couple of seasons… it is inevitable that people will close the gap. When you are uncomfortable with the pace, it is relative.

“If you’ve got a two or three tenths advantage over everyone, then you don’t have to push the car. Is that what we are seeing now?

“Is Max having to get more out of the car than he can, as a result of other people closing up? Actually, are you starting to see the ultimate performance of the Red Bull, and they are scratching their heads to find more. Competition is definitely coming.”