Max Verstappen Goes All-In to Narrow Gap with McLaren in Title Chase
Max Verstappen is gearing up for a fierce challenge at the São Paulo Grand Prix as he aims to close the 36-point deficit in the Formula One title race against McLaren’s leading duo, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. The reigning champion from Red Bull is embracing the pressure-free mindset that comes with having “nothing to lose” as the season heads into its final stretch.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the race, Verstappen acknowledged the need for some luck to bridge the gap, but he is committed to going “all-in” to achieve his goal. With only four rounds remaining, including two sprint races, the battle is heating up, with Norris just one point ahead of his teammate Piastri.
Verstappen’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. At the end of August, he found himself 104 points behind then-leader Piastri. However, he has made a stunning comeback in recent weeks, securing three victories in the last five races to re-enter the championship conversation.
“We probably need a little bit of luck in one round to create a bigger offset, but we’re going to give it all,” said Verstappen, who famously won last year’s Brazilian Grand Prix after starting from 17th on the grid. “If that’s enough at the end of the year, I don’t know, but there’s not much to lose. Worst case, we finish P3, and best case, we win the championship.”
Verstappen has won five of the 20 races so far this season, while Norris leads with six victories and Piastri boasts seven. Despite the intensity of the title fight, Verstappen remains philosophical. “For me, there’s no pressure. Even if I don’t win it, I still know that I drove a really good season,” he stated.
Reflecting on his comeback, he added, “To still be talking about being in this fight after being over 100 points behind is already remarkable. I think it’s very impressive.”
