Verstappen: “With McLaren, the title would be easy”, Norris under pressure

Verstappen Asserts the World Championship Would Be “Easily Won” if He Drove Norris’ McLaren

Max Verstappen has made a strong statement to Lando Norris, claiming that if he were behind the wheel of Norris’ McLaren, the world championship would “easily” already be decided. In the run-up to this weekend’s crucial Qatar Grand Prix, Red Bull driver Verstappen commented that Norris feels the pressure of trying to secure his first Formula 1 title. Verstappen, who was 104 points behind the championship leader, is now only 24 points behind Norris, with two races remaining in the season. Norris’ McLaren team secured the constructors’ championship in Azerbaijan in September.

Your dream is to win a championship and that’s when the pressure intensifies.

Max Verstappen

Verstappen also shared his own experiences when fighting for his first title, highlighting the added pressure felt in that situation and the uncertainty about future opportunities. He acknowledged that in Norris’s position, he too would try to hide that pressure. Reflecting on his own career, Verstappen mentioned that winning four world championships is something incredible, and that he shouldn’t be in the current fight, but he is there. When asked what would happen if he drove Norris’ McLaren, Verstappen replied without hesitation and with a big smile:

We wouldn’t be talking about a championship. It would already be won, easily.

Max Verstappen

Verstappen highlighted that the McLaren team won the constructors’ championship in advance, suggesting their confidence in the car’s potential. Verstappen has rejoined the fight for the title by winning four of the eight races held since the summer break, a situation that seemed unlikely after Christian Horner’s departure, with Red Bull in free fall.

Reflecting on Horner’s departure, Verstappen explained that there were many internal problems that affected the car’s performance and the team’s stability. However, the combination of changes in the team’s direction and understanding of the car brought greater confidence and calm.

Verstappen revealed that he still keeps in touch with Horner, with whom he exchanges messages about the races and other matters. He highlighted the importance of recognizing Horner’s contribution to the team and the unforgettable moments they experienced together, such as the first title in 2021 and the emotion of the last race in Abu Dhabi. Horner, 52, is planning his return to the paddock and has been linked with Aston Martin. Adrian Newey has been confirmed as team director for the British team. Verstappen concluded by saying that he wouldn’t be surprised by Horner’s return and that he prefers not to interfere in his decisions. Furthermore, he pointed out that, although internal tensions may have affected the team, the rivalry between Horner and Toto Wolff, director of the Mercedes team, was something that the Formula 1 world enjoyed.