Reigning world champion Max Verstappen has sensationally conceded he can not win the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, almost a week before a single lap is completed.

The four-time world champion made a stellar start to his season in 2024, winning seven of the first 10 races, but believes a far more sobering outcome is more likely this time around.

“I don’t think we can fight for the win already in Melbourne,” Verstappen told motorsport.com.

Red Bull was well down on the pace of McLaren, who closed last season with blistering form to claim the Constructor’s title and make a fist of the Driver’s championship with Englishman Lando Norris, during testing in Bahrain last month.

Verstappen suggested the car would be “better in Melbourne than in Bahrain”; however, he showed little confidence in competing with the team in papaya.

“At the moment, only one (team are contending for wins), and that team is orange,” the 27-year-old Dutchman said.

“That’s a very nice colour, of course, but from our side, we still have work to do. Other teams want to see some improvements as well, I think, so at the moment, one team is clearly in front.

“If you look at the lap times (from testing), then I think McLaren is the favourite. On our side, not everything went completely smoothly, but on the other hand, we have some ideas on how to improve.”

It’s good news for local hope Oscar Piastri, who drives alongside Norris at McLaren.

The 23-year-old from Melbourne will be confident of pushing for at least a podium at his home track but will strive for a maiden home Grand Prix triumph around the streets of Albert Park.

Alan Jones was the last Australian to win a home race while no Aussie has featured on the podium since 1983.

The race is set for Sunday, March 16.