McLaren on Alert: 'Max is Max' as Verstappen Threatens Title Bid

Despite McLaren's strong season, Andrea Stella acknowledges that Max Verstappen and Red Bull were never out of the championship picture, even as Verstappen rapidly closes the points gap. The reigning champion has cut Oscar Piastri's lead from 104 to 55 points in just over three Grand Prix weekends, reminding everyone of his formidable presence.

Why it matters:

After a dominant start for McLaren, Verstappen's resurgence highlights the intense battle for the F1 2025 World Championship. His ability to claw back significant points in a short period underscores his consistent threat and the ongoing challenge for McLaren to maintain their lead against a proven champion and team.

The Details:

• Verstappen's Comeback: Since the Dutch Grand Prix, Max Verstappen has slashed Oscar Piastri's championship lead by 49 points, narrowing it to 55 points. He's now only 33 points behind second-placed Lando Norris.
• McLaren's Stance: Team Principal Andrea Stella maintains that McLaren was never 'naive' enough to count Verstappen out of the title fight. "Max is Max, Red Bull is Red Bull," Stella stated, emphasizing Verstappen's status as a "super champion."
• Focus on Self-Improvement: Stella highlights his drivers' ability to "reduce the noise and focus on themselves," believing that extracting their best potential will allow them to control their destiny in the championship quest.
• Verstappen's Assessment: Despite his gains, Verstappen believes Red Bull needs to improve their pace to truly challenge McLaren for the title. He noted that while he won the Austin Sprint, the car's pace wasn't where he wanted it to be.
  • He felt happier with the car in post-qualifying, but acknowledged that a stronger performance is needed for a decisive win.
• Red Bull's Strategy: Motorsport advisor Helmut Marko acknowledges the 55-point deficit is substantial but not impossible. He aims to make up 15 points in Austin, emphasizing tire management in warmer temperatures as crucial for success, referencing George Russell's struggles in the Sprint.

Between the lines:

Fernando Alonso weighed in, calling Verstappen one of the "best drivers in the history of the sport." He noted Verstappen's ability to extract maximum performance from any car, even winning the 2021 title with a "little bit less performing" car than Mercedes. Alonso suggests that if the points gap tightens, Verstappen could become the man to follow, despite McLaren's current car advantage.

What's next:

The championship battle intensifies with Verstappen closing in. While McLaren secured the Constructors' crown, the Drivers' title remains hotly contested. The coming races will test McLaren's resolve and Verstappen's ability to maximize every opportunity, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the F1 2025 season.