Max Verstappen has described his persistent challenge for the Formula One World Championship as “remarkable” and “very impressive” as he escalates the mental duel with Lando Norris and McLaren ahead of the final four races of the season.
Just five races ago, the four-time world champion trailed the championship leader by a daunting 104 points following his home Grand Prix in the Netherlands. Now, as the championship heads to the São Paulo Grand Prix in Brazil, Verstappen has closed the gap significantly to just 36 points behind Norris. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri is close behind, just one point further back, highlighting McLaren’s dominance this year.
Verstappen, who triumphed impressively in last year’s wet Brazilian Grand Prix, a victory that dashed Norris’ title hopes, remains unfazed by the pressure. He reflected, “For me, there is no pressure. Even if I don’t win it, I know I have had a very strong season. To replicate the level I have delivered would be tough for most drivers on the grid. Considering the setbacks we faced, it’s remarkable to still be in this fight.”
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He credited the team’s turnaround as a crucial factor, saying, “The strength and resilience of the team have been key. Being over 100 points behind earlier in the season and still being in contention now shows how impressive our progress has been.”
Lando Norris, who regained the championship lead with a commanding victory in Mexico City, acknowledged the significance of competing for the title. “It’s a surreal feeling to be fighting for the World Championship. It’s part of my dream, and while it feels incredible, it doesn’t change my focus. There are still over 100 points available, and nothing is decided yet,” he said.
After suffering an engine failure in the Netherlands that dropped him 34 points behind Piastri, Norris remains determined. “I have to win every race I can now. Last weekend’s performance proved to me what I’m capable of — a small piece of a much bigger puzzle. You celebrate a moment, but then you keep pushing forward.”
As the season heads into its climax, the intense rivalry between Verstappen, Norris, and Piastri promises thrilling racing and high stakes drama in the battle for the ultimate prize in Formula One.