As the weeks go by, what once looked like a desperate world championship chase for Max Verstappen is starting to look increasingly possible. The Dutch driver has reduced the gap to just 36 points behind Lando Norris, keeping his hopes of a fifth consecutive world title alive. Although the deficit remains significant with only four races left in the season, the mere fact that Verstappen is still in contention adds extra pressure on the McLaren duo of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Jos believes in the comeback
In an interview with Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, Jos Verstappen made it clear that he believes his son still has a chance. “I don’t get involved anymore because Max hasn’t needed that for a long time. But the fact that he still has a chance to win the world championship is a huge advantage, especially considering how things looked around the summer break. Now the atmosphere within the team is completely different, and I have a great relationship with Laurent Mekies. It gives me a lot of peace to see how much Max is enjoying himself again. Given the gap, he can’t control the situation, but he’s very open and relaxed.” – he pointed out.
The father of the reigning champion then took the opportunity to comment on McLaren’s internal situation: “I find it quite strange what’s happening at McLaren. Oscar Piastri can’t have suddenly forgotten how to drive. If I were him or his manager, Mark Webber, I’d be banging my fists on the table inside the team. Right now, everyone is wondering whether he can handle the pressure, and that’s not good for his reputation.”
When asked about the theories suggesting that McLaren might be favoring Lando Norris, Jos Verstappen concluded: “Maybe it’s as it seems, but I have no idea. If I were Piastri, I’d defend myself with tooth and nail. Everyone took it for granted that he would become world champion, and now that perception has changed very quickly.”
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