Formula 1 drivers are currently evaluating Max Verstappen`s prospects of launching a remarkable title challenge against McLaren`s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. This assessment follows Verstappen`s recent impressive return to form, marked by consecutive race victories.
After an uncharacteristic four-month dry spell without a win, Verstappen has secured back-to-back triumphs in Monza and Baku. This success provides the reigning four-time world champion with significant momentum as he approaches this weekend`s Singapore Grand Prix at the forefront of the competition.
Despite this recent surge, Verstappen faces a considerable points deficit: 69 points behind championship leader Piastri and 44 points adrift of second-placed Norris. The question on everyone`s mind is, what are the chances of Verstappen clinching a fifth world title by the end of the season?
During Thursday`s media day in Singapore, several of Verstappen`s competitors were asked to estimate his championship odds.
Ferrari`s Charles Leclerc offered a conservative estimate, stating:
“I would say 20 percent.”
He elaborated,
“The points gap is substantial, and while Red Bull felt very strong on low-downforce tracks like Monza and Baku, I anticipate McLaren will regain their dominant pace on circuits like this and those to come.”
Leclerc concluded,
“So, I see it as very unlikely, but one can never be certain.”
He also noted,
“Their upgrade in Monza seems effective, but I doubt it will be enough to surpass McLaren on high-downforce tracks.”
Haas driver Esteban Ocon acknowledged Verstappen`s formidable nature:
“We all know Max and his danger when there`s an opportunity to seize. So, yes, there`s a strong possibility that if his car remains competitive throughout the year, he could close the gap.”
Williams` Alex Albon, a former Red Bull teammate, put his estimate at
“15 percent.”
He provocatively added,
“One incident between Lando and Oscar, and it`s all back in play. I`m not sure what the bookmakers` odds are, but I`ll stick with 15.”
Unsurprisingly, Lando Norris chose not to directly comment on his rival`s championship hopes, simply stating:
“I mean, there`s a chance, so… more than zero. I don`t know.”
However, Mercedes` George Russell, seated next to his friend and fellow British driver Norris during the press conference, provided a humorous reply. With a laugh, Russell declared:
“100 percent!”
Verstappen`s Perspective: “Nothing to Lose”
The article also briefly touches upon Verstappen`s own perspective on his title chances, framed as having “nothing to lose.”
