Max Verstappen has made a bold statement about Lando Norris’ Formula 1 championship hopes, suggesting that if he were behind the wheel of Norris’ McLaren, the title race would already be decided in his favor.
Speaking to the Press Association ahead of the critical Qatar Grand Prix, the four-time world champion acknowledged the immense pressure Norris must be feeling as he aims for his first Formula 1 crown. Verstappen empathized with the challenge, recalling the stress he endured fighting for his initial title.
“Your dream is to win a championship, and that is when the pressure is on,” Verstappen explained. “It was the same for me when I was fighting for my first title. You definitely feel more pressure being in that fight, thinking ‘this is my chance’ and uncertain if another one will come.”
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Verstappen highlighted how public scrutiny and negative remarks affect drivers differently and confessed he would likely mask the pressure if in Norris’ shoes. “People can hide a lot—I would if I were in his position," he said. “The pressure of sealing the deal is always in the back of his mind.”
Despite being an outsider at the start of the season, Verstappen has fought back from a 104-point deficit to narrow the gap to just 24 points behind Norris entering the last two races. Norris’ McLaren team already clinched the constructors’ title earlier this year in Azerbaijan.
When asked directly how he’d fare driving Norris’ car, Verstappen was quick and confident: “We wouldn’t be talking about a championship. It would already have been won, easily. They won the constructors’ championship so early—you can fill it in yourself.”
Reflecting on Red Bull’s tumultuous mid-season, Verstappen credited the arrival of new team principal Christian Horner with turning their fortunes around after a difficult start. Despite Horner’s recent departure, Verstappen maintains close contact with him, staying connected every race weekend.
“It’s important to acknowledge what Christian did for this team,” Verstappen said. “The first title in 2021, the rollercoaster of that year, and the emotions of Abu Dhabi’s final race—moments you never forget.”
Verstappen also commented on Lewis Hamilton’s challenging first season at Ferrari. The seven-time world champion has won just two races since moving teams and described his debut year as a “nightmare.”
“If you don’t feel secure or comfortable within the team dynamic, it impacts you,” Verstappen noted. “Leaving a team like Mercedes, which has been your second family, and facing tough competition from a teammate who’s been there longer is very difficult. Age is not on your side either—you’re not going to get faster.”
Looking ahead, Verstappen, 28, is under contract with Red Bull until 2028 but warned that his future in Formula 1 depends heavily on the 2026 rule changes. He emphasized that winning seven world titles is not a personal goal, and he is open to pursuing other passions outside of F1.
“I can leave the sport easily tomorrow,” he admitted. “I have other interests, different racing categories, and want more time with my family. Once I close the chapter, it’s closed—I don’t see myself returning after I stop.”