Following a commanding performance at the Japanese Grand Prix, Max Verstappen has ignited discussions about whether the Formula 1 championship battle could evolve into a three-way contest, potentially involving McLaren.
McLaren entered the Suzuka weekend with high expectations, as the circuit`s characteristics were anticipated to favor their car`s strengths.
Having already secured victories in the initial races in Australia and China, including a dominant 1-2 finish in the latter, McLaren demonstrated formidable race pace.
Despite McLaren`s pre-race favoritism, Verstappen secured pole position with a record-breaking lap at Suzuka. He then proceeded to fend off McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri during the race, narrowing Norris`s lead in the driver standings to a single point after three rounds.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner lauded Verstappen`s performance as `inch perfect,` celebrating his first win of the season after prior finishes of second and fourth in Australia and China, respectively.
This result provides McLaren with significant food for thought, even though they have arguably possessed the fastest car on the grid for the past three race weekends.
Horner: Verstappen Currently World`s Best Driver
Horner commented, `This weekend proves that consistent hard work and unwavering determination can lead to success. Unlocking further potential in our car could place us firmly in championship contention.`
`Max delivered one of his finest weekends. He is, without question, the top driver in Formula 1 right now. His qualifying performance was crucial, and his race execution was flawless.`
`We focused on providing him with a car that allowed him to maximize his abilities, and he drove exceptionally well. His precise execution in the final chicane was decisive.`
`He serves as a major motivator for our team, and nothing motivates more than winning. We are aware of this car`s limitations and know the areas that require improvement.`
Verstappen`s ability to secure victories even when not in the fastest car was evident last season, culminating in a significant points advantage over Norris and Piastri.
When questioned about his expectations for consistent competitiveness moving forward, starting with the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix, Verstappen stated, `I don`t anticipate it. We still have areas to refine. However, it demonstrates our potential when we execute perfectly.
`Our ambition is to consistently perform at the highest level, not just occasionally. We aim to continually improve the car and unlock more performance. To realistically contend for the title, we need further advancements.`
Norris: Verstappen`s Victory Not Unexpected
Norris anticipates a season-long rivalry with Verstappen and expressed no surprise at his rival`s impressive showing in Japan.
Norris commented, `Max`s performance doesn`t surprise me at all. I`ve always been aware of his capabilities. I don`t need reminding of what Max is capable of achieving.`
`I`m confident we will have strong races and engage in close battles where sometimes he will prevail, and other times I will.`
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella acknowledges Verstappen as a threat but believes maintaining a title challenge throughout the season will be difficult for the reigning champion without possessing the fastest car.
Stella noted, `When Max performs at such a high level, precision is crucial in qualifying and maximizing every possible millisecond.`
`Hopefully, not all circuits will exhibit the same degree of tire degradation as Japan, allowing us to fully utilize our car`s potential, which I still believe is superior.`
`Max`s individual brilliance is a factor, but consistently competing across 24 events is challenging without the fastest car.`
Sky Sports analyst and 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve cautioned Red Bull, stating, `Max will consistently capitalize on every opportunity, but this car may struggle in warmer conditions and become more challenging to manage.`
Formula 1`s triple-header continues in Sakhir for the Bahrain Grand Prix next weekend on April 11-13.
