Rookie Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen has played down expectations ahead of the 2015 season.

The 17-year-old will become the youngest driver in the sport's history when he drives for Toro Rosso, and he is keen to emphasise that miracles won't happen at first.

He told reporters: "Occasionally I hear or read things that make it seem as though miracles are expected. But I'm a driver, not a magician."

Verstappen's father, Jos, believes his son will make mistakes as he gets to grips with his new team: "Next season in the races he will continue to collect miles and gain experience. And undoubtedly once in a while he will park the car in the gravel.

"I especially hope that people support him and do not use his young age against him."

Verstappen will race for the first time in Australia in March.