Kvyat was forced to make way for Max Verstappen in Red Bull's main team four races into the season - and has struggled for form at Toro Rosso since then, frequently coming up short of new teammate Carlos Sainz.

Asked whether having to constantly prove himself was a downside of the Red Bull programme, Kvyat said: "I can't blame them for this of course, they made me a strong driver.

"Now I'm not so strong because of what happened a few months ago, but it's not an excuse, not an explanation.

"These things, in the end, make you stronger again, but, of course, the whole situation made me reflect a bit on things, and it's not easy.

"It made me stop enjoying it for a while, but now I need to get this enjoyment back and love what I do again."

Calming down

Having been bitterly disappointed with his exit from Q1 at the German Grand Prix, Kvyat had a better run on race day, recovering to finish 2.5s behind teammate Sainz - albeit both were well adrift of the points.

"No points is disappointing, but, on the other hand, I felt quite comfortable today in the car, even if it was difficult to drive.

"I felt like I got the absolute maximum out of the car, which is positive. There was nothing we could have done better today from our side.

"Considering all the circumstances, it was a good day. It gives me confidence going into the summer break, to be honest. I need to put things together a bit more on Saturdays, then we can be in good shape for Sunday as well."

Nevertheless, Kvyat also admitted the summer break has come at a good time for him.

"I really need it, I think me more than anyone else. I've been really draining myself, asking too much of myself, things that were not possible in the car and in the circumstances, especially when I just came to the team.

"It's easy to drain yourself, that's what I feel like I did.

"Many people who know me saw I was not quite myself for the last few weeks. I don't need anyone to be sorry for me, but everyone has these points in their life.

"[Saturday] was a low point, but [on Sunday] I feel like I made not one, but a few steps ahead so I think it's going to be much better from now on.

"I believe we should be on a good path now. I've kind of calmed down."

Additional reporting by Jamie Klein