Formula 1 drivers are keenly discussing Max Verstappen`s prospects for a remarkable comeback in this year`s world championship battle. This comes after the Dutchman`s recent impressive performance, securing consecutive victories in Monza and Baku, breaking an unusual four-month period without a top-step finish. As the racing world converges on the Singapore Grand Prix, the reigning four-time world champion enters the weekend with renewed momentum at the forefront of the field.
Despite his recent triumphs, Verstappen faces a significant deficit in the championship standings. He currently trails McLaren`s Oscar Piastri by a substantial 69 points, and his teammate Lando Norris holds a 44-point advantage over him. The central question engaging the paddock is whether Verstappen can realistically clinch his fifth world title this year.
Rivals Weigh In on Verstappen`s Chances
During the media day in Singapore, several of Verstappen`s fellow competitors offered their predictions regarding his championship aspirations:
Ferrari`s Charles Leclerc: “I would put his chances at around 20 percent. The points gap is considerable. I observed that Red Bull was exceptionally strong on low-downforce tracks like Monza and Baku. However, I expect McLaren to return to their competitive form on higher-downforce circuits, similar to Singapore and other upcoming venues. Therefore, I find it highly improbable, although in Formula 1, you never truly know. I don`t believe the upgrade they introduced in Monza will be sufficient to overcome McLaren on tracks demanding more downforce.”
Haas driver Esteban Ocon: “We all acknowledge Max`s talent and how formidable he becomes when there`s a championship to fight for. So yes, there`s a strong possibility that if he continues to have a competitive car for the rest of the season, he could certainly make up ground.”
Williams` Alex Albon, a former Red Bull teammate: “I`ll estimate about 15 percent. A single incident between Lando and Oscar, and suddenly, the whole game changes. I`m unsure of the bookmakers` odds, but I`m sticking with 15.”
Lando Norris, one of the leading contenders against Verstappen, understandably refrained from directly assessing his rival`s prospects. He offered a concise, “I mean, there’s a chance, so… more than zero. I don’t know.”
Mercedes driver George Russell, however, provided a more lighthearted assessment while seated alongside his friend and compatriot Norris at the press conference. With a burst of laughter, Russell declared, “100 percent!” playfully hinting at the intensity of the championship battle.
Max Verstappen`s Own Perspective on the Title
Despite the various predictions from his peers, Max Verstappen himself appears to maintain a pragmatic view of his title ambitions. He openly acknowledges the “big gap” separating him from the McLaren drivers in the championship standings and stated that he is “not really thinking about the title” at this current stage of the season.
