McLaren predicted to struggle as Verstappen backed to win the world title
The 2025 Formula 1 World Championship has, ever since pre-season testing in Bahrain, followed a clear path: the near-total dominance of McLaren. The MCL39 has adapted brilliantly to every circuit and to every set of conditions. Yet, according to a former Formula 1 driver, the final part of the season will bring major difficulties for the Woking-based team. Max Verstappen, meanwhile, could be ready to take full advantage and crown himself world champion once again.
A dominant McLaren, but doubts remain
So far this season, very few have managed to finish ahead of both McLaren drivers. Aside from Verstappen himself, only George Russell has done it once. In the Constructors’ Championship, the British team is already running away with the title, holding a lead of more than 300 points over their nearest rivals. However, the situation in the Drivers’ Championship remains less clear-cut.
At the moment, Oscar Piastri leads the standings with a 25-point advantage over his teammate Lando Norris. Verstappen sits 69 points behind the Australian, which also means he trails Norris by 44. With several races still on the calendar and considering the way McLaren struggled in Baku, the gap is far from insurmountable for the Dutchman. Piastri endured a weekend filled with mistakes, while Norris once again failed to fully capitalize on the opportunities presented to him.
Van der Garde: Verstappen will be champion
For many, the possibility of Verstappen becoming a five-time world champion is looking increasingly realistic. Among them is former Formula 1 driver Giedo van der Garde, who shared his thoughts on ViaPlay. He expressed his certainty in no uncertain terms: “I don’t think Piastri or Norris will become world champions. Max will. His car has improved and if you look at the calendar, there are only two Grands Prix where McLaren might still do well: Singapore and Qatar.”
The Dutchman continued with a bold prediction: “In the other races? I bet it will be Max who wins. There are many points to make up, but let’s not forget that Lando and Oscar have never been world champions. They will experience moments of nervousness that will lead to mistakes. They will also end up off track at times, while Max has nothing to lose. Believe me: he will become world champion.”
Verstappen’s uphill battle
Although Verstappen remains the outsider in terms of points, the reigning champion has shown on multiple occasions that he thrives when under pressure. If McLaren falter even slightly in the coming races, the Red Bull driver could well mount a late-season charge to overturn the standings. With Singapore, Qatar and several unpredictable circuits still ahead, the outcome of the 2025 title fight is far from decided.
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