McLaren title rivals looking warily for Verstappen's late charge | The Express Tribune
Key Takeaways
- Max Verstappen is in strong form and challenging McLaren's championship leaders Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris ahead of the US Grand Prix.
- Former champion Jacques Villeneuve predicts Verstappen will win the title, stating the McLaren drivers are suffering from pressure.
- McLaren's car has not received recent updates, contrasting with a potent and revised Red Bull package.
- Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton are under pressure to perform well in Austin following a difficult period and internal media speculation.
- The race weekend includes a sprint race, adding another element of potential drama to the tight championship battle.
As the Formula 1 season nears its end with six rounds left, McLaren teammates Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are separated by only 22 points, but they must contend with Max Verstappen, who is closing the 63-point gap to Piastri following recent victories. Former world champion Jacques Villeneuve predicts Verstappen will secure his fifth title, suggesting the McLaren drivers are buckling under pressure, particularly as their car has not been recently updated while Red Bull's package is potent. The upcoming United States Grand Prix at COTA includes a sprint race, which could further heighten nerves for the championship contenders. Meanwhile, Ferrari is dealing with media speculation about internal disarray and potential leadership changes, as they and Lewis Hamilton search for a much-needed strong result after a winless streak for the team. Mercedes, coming off a win in Singapore with George Russell, is also looking to maintain momentum, having confirmed their 2025 driver lineup with Kimi Antonelli joining Russell.
