Wolff Admits Verstappen is 'Great' Amidst Red Bull's Resurgence

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has acknowledged Max Verstappen's exceptional form, noting that Red Bull Racing has "turned the car around" in recent races, making it the "most competitive at the moment." This admission comes as Verstappen continues to aggressively close the gap in the Formula 1 Drivers' Championship.

Why it matters:

Wolff's comments highlight a significant shift in the F1 landscape, where Red Bull, after some struggles, appears to have found a dominant stride. This resurgence, spearheaded by Verstappen, could dramatically alter the championship battle in the remaining races, putting pressure on current leaders like Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.

The Details:

• Verstappen's Performance: Wolff praised Verstappen, stating, "Max is great... He's scoring the big points, and he's as good as it gets as a driver." This directly acknowledges the Dutch driver's skill and impact on Red Bull's improved standing.
• Red Bull's Turnaround: According to Wolff, Red Bull has "just turned the car around," indicating a successful development or setup change that has made their car the most competitive on the grid.
• Championship Impact: Since the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, Verstappen has significantly outscored both Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. This consistent performance has allowed him to cut Piastri's lead from 104 points down to just 40 points.
• Verstappen's Perspective: Despite his strong form, Verstappen remains cautious about his title chances. He emphasizes that winning the 2025 Drivers' title would depend on Red Bull maintaining their recent performance through the final races, including five Grand Prix events and two Sprint races.

The Big Picture:

This season's championship fight is proving to be one of the most dynamic in recent memory. While Piastri and Norris initially held a strong advantage, Red Bull's late-season surge, fueled by Verstappen's consistent wins, has reignited the title race. Mercedes, despite Wolff's praise for a competitor, will be closely watching as they aim to improve their own performance and challenge for victories.

What's next:

With only five races and two Sprints remaining on the 2025 calendar, the championship is far from decided. The battle between Verstappen, Piastri, and Norris will likely intensify, with every point becoming critical. Teams will be pushing development hard in the final rounds, making each race crucial for title aspirations.