McLaren's Stella on Verstappen's Title Chances

McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella maintains a realistic view of Max Verstappen's championship threat, asserting that the team has never underestimated the four-time world champion's ability to mount a comeback. Despite a commanding lead earlier in the season, the title fight has tightened, with Verstappen significantly closing the points gap to championship leader Oscar Piastri.

Why it matters:

After a dominant start, McLaren's lead has shrunk as Max Verstappen and Red Bull find their stride. Stella's pragmatic stance highlights the internal recognition that the championship is far from decided, underscoring the pressure on McLaren to maintain focus and performance against a formidable opponent.

The Details:

• Andrea Stella emphasized that McLaren was "never naive" about Verstappen's potential to contest the Drivers' World Championship, acknowledging his status as a "super champion" and four-time reigning world champion.
• Since the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, Verstappen has gained 41 points on Oscar Piastri, reducing the championship gap from over 100 points to 63.
• Team Focus: Stella noted his impression of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri's ability to filter out external distractions and concentrate on their own performance. He believes that by maximizing their potential, they can control their destiny in the championship quest.
• Upcoming Race: The championship battle continues with the United States Grand Prix, which includes both a sprint race and the main Grand Prix.
• In the most recent race in Singapore, Verstappen finished ahead of both McLaren drivers, further contributing to his points resurgence.

The Big Picture:

Verstappen's late-season surge has become a significant storyline, shifting the championship dynamic. While McLaren initially seemed to have a comfortable lead, Red Bull's consistent performance and Verstappen's undeniable skill have brought him back into contention. This sets the stage for a tense and exciting conclusion to the season, with every race becoming crucial for both McLaren and Red Bull.

What's next:

The United States Grand Prix will be a critical juncture in the title fight. McLaren's ability to maintain their focus and extract maximum performance from their drivers will be key to fending off Verstappen's charge. The outcome of the upcoming races will determine whether McLaren can solidify their championship aspirations or if Verstappen can complete a remarkable comeback.