Can Imola mark a turning point? Max Verstappen reveals where he can challenge McLaren. Max Verstappen outlines where he can challenge McLaren.

F1 will race at Imola in the seventh round of the 24-race season. McLaren arrives at the first European stop of the year as the clear favourite for both championships: the only driver who seems able to trouble the two papaya cars is Max Verstappen. The Dutchman, looking at the recent race results, explained under which conditions he believes he can come out on top.

So far, the 2025 Formula 1 season is not unfolding as expected. During the winter, this championship was billed as full of action and plot twists, but McLaren is managing to dominate the Grands Prix. Max Verstappen has so far been the only one to break their race-winning streak.

Speaking to the media, he first confirmed that McLaren’s real strength over the competition is most evident on Sundays. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, in fact, manage to maintain a strong race pace while also delivering impressive tyre management.

In qualifying, however, McLaren still seems to have some weaknesses. While Verstappen has only won one race, the Red Bull driver has taken three pole positions in the first six events. It’s precisely this aspect that gives Max Verstappen hope for a return to winning ways.

Where can Max Verstappen beat McLaren?
“I’m looking forward to driving on some tracks I enjoy. Maybe on circuits where overtaking is difficult, you have a chance, and we’ll see what happens.” According to this statement, the championship calendar now plays slightly in the Dutchman’s favour. The next two rounds are Imola and Monaco—circuits (especially the latter) where overtaking is rare. “Monaco hasn’t been our best track in the past, but sometimes things go your way, though you can’t always count on that.”

If what Max said proves true over the next two races, the Dutchman could stay close to the two McLaren drivers. Otherwise, the papaya duo could further increase their lead in the championship standings. However, it’s worth remembering that the season is still long, and plot twists may come in Barcelona, where the technical directive on flexible wings will be introduced.