Despite a significant points deficit earlier in the season, McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella has emphatically identified Red Bull’s Max Verstappen as a serious contender for the Formula 1 title. This assessment has gained credibility as the points gap has recently narrowed, highlighting the competitive dynamics at play.
According to the Jadeh Makhsoos news agency, Stella stated, “A firm yes. Can you write it capital [letters]? First of all, he’s Max Verstappen – world champion for the last four years. In a fast car.” He also noted that with two strong drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, McLaren may see points split between them in some races.
McLaren’s recent performance dip at circuits like Monza and Baku is not seen as a cause for panic within the team. These tracks, characterized by long straights and heavy braking zones, do not align with the MCL39’s core strengths, which lie in medium-to-high-speed corners. The team anticipates a return to form at upcoming venues like Singapore.
However, Stella cautions that Red Bull’s recent resurgence is not merely track-specific. The improved performance of the RB21 suggests a genuine step forward in competitiveness, making them a formidable opponent across different circuit types.
According to Jadeh Makhsoos, Stella acknowledged Red Bull’s improvement in Monza, noting they were “fast in the corners, medium speed and low speed corners, fast in the straights.” His public warning about Verstappen’s threat is viewed as a strategic move to maintain focus and manage expectations within his team as the championship battle intensifies. What are your thoughts on this strategic rivalry? Share your analysis in the comments.