McLaren boss surprised by team's title fight with Red Bull

McLaren's Zak Brown says he is surprised to find the team in a battle with Red Bull for the world championship this season.

Brown's comments come after McLaren driver Lando Norris secured a stunning pole position for the Dutch Grand Prix, beating Red Bull's Max Verstappen by an impressive margin of 0.356 seconds.

Norris has been in impressive form for McLaren this season, and Brown believes that he can beat Verstappen in a straight fight.

However, Brown is also aware of the challenges that McLaren face in taking on Red Bull, who have won the last four drivers' and constructors' championships.

"I think we're surprised to be in this position," Brown said. "We knew we'd made a step forward this year, but we didn't think we'd be fighting for the championship.

"Red Bull are a very strong team, and they've got a lot of experience. But I think we've got a good car and a good driver, and we're going to give it our best shot.

"I think Lando can beat Max in a straight fight. He's shown that he's got the pace and the racecraft to do it. But Red Bull are a very strong team, and they're going to be tough to beat."

McLaren are currently third in the constructors' championship, behind Red Bull and Ferrari. Norris is fourth in the drivers' championship, behind Verstappen, Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez.

The next race is the Dutch Grand Prix, which takes place on Sunday, September 4.