Max Verstappen says he is "not satisfied" with his current situation in the 2019 pecking order.

Although clearly Red Bull's number 1, a big car upgrade for Barcelona has not moved the team any closer to the top step of the podium.

"I am not satisfied," Verstappen admitted to Ziggo Sport in Barcelona.

"We went to Barcelona with updates, just like the other teams, but I am fourth again. How many times have I been fourth?" he said.

Verstappen said the fact that he is close to Ferrari in Spain is "positive", but admitted: "Generally I am not satisfied. Hopefully we can fight for the podium.

"But Mercedes will be too fast. Normally at the start, they are gone."

Verstappen said the issue with the 2019 Red Bull is a simple lack of grip.

"There is nothing really wrong," he admitted. "We just need more grip.

"Everything has to be better. Engine, chassis. But there is no quick solution, otherwise we would have done it. I just drive what I have as fast as I can."

Finally, Verstappen said Mercedes' Valtteri Bottas has a real chance of beating Lewis Hamilton to the 2019 title.

"Yes. He has confidence, and the car seems to suit him better. That always helps," he said.