“You all ridiculed my ideas, but let me tell you, the situation has changed,” is a well-known statement by a certain political figure, which has gained popularity as an internet meme.
Regardless of the specific situation, it could hold significance, and this is especially true for the 2025 Formula 1 season.
Throughout the year, the McLaren teammates have been the central figures in discussions about the drivers’ championship. The focus has been on Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, with debates about which one will secure the anticipated McLaren 1-2 finish in the upcoming race, given the exceptional MCL39 developed by the current champions.
However, McLaren’s dominance hasn’t overshadowed the potential threat from Max Verstappen, who has remained competitive. This is a fact that others might only be acknowledging now. The previous race in Baku demonstrated how quickly circumstances can shift in F1.
“We cannot afford repetitions of weekends like Baku,” stated championship frontrunner Piastri prior to the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, referencing his first-lap retirement in Azerbaijan. This presented an evident chance for rivals to capitalize, but Norris only managed seventh place, while Verstappen seized the opportunity, claiming his second consecutive victory after Monza.
Consequently, the Red Bull driver is now 69 points behind Piastri with seven weekends remaining. While this may appear substantial, considering the gap was 104 points just two races ago, it is still possible for Verstappen to achieve the unexpected.
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Photo by: Rudy Carezzevoli / Getty Images
The reason this is conceivable is because “he’s Max Verstappen – four-time world champion” as McLaren team principal Andrea Stella highlighted after the previous race. The impact of this experience on the McLaren drivers, both vying for their first title, and the rest of the field cannot be overstated.
“We are all familiar with Max and his threat when opportunities arise,” stated Haas driver Esteban Ocon. “There’s a high likelihood that he could recover if he has a competitive vehicle for the remainder of the season.”
Ocon was among several drivers who believed Verstappen had a chance at the title, with Mercedes’ George Russell even suggesting it was “100%” possible. There’s a widespread sentiment that Verstappen is the driver most likely to capitalize on any opening, something that has been demonstrated repeatedly.
Examples from this year include his victories in Baku, Monza, and Imola. Similarly, in 2023, a dominant car allowed Verstappen to secure a record-breaking 19 grand prix victories, leading to his third title. Considering the current grid, who else could have achieved the same results under similar circumstances? Perhaps Lewis Hamilton during his peak, but that may be the only exception.
“I’ve stated multiple times that he was born to be, and will always be, among the best, if not the best in Formula 1,” commented Norris. “Therefore, the chances of anyone challenging and defeating him are often quite limited.”
This attitude from Norris seems somewhat resigned and suggests that Verstappen holds a psychological advantage even before the competition begins. However, it may be understandable, as recent races have emphasized the Dutchman’s significant threat this year.
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Photo by: Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images
Provide him with the right equipment, and he will perform. Following a floor enhancement before Monza, Verstappen now has a car capable of rivaling the McLarens, commencing this weekend.
“Based on the most recent races, I predict that Red Bull and Max will once again be strong,” stated Piastri, with Norris adding, “We expect competition, particularly with him here.”
Another outcome similar to Baku would position Verstappen strongly in the title chase. McLaren is aware of this and needs to continuously emphasize the threat posed by the reigning champion, especially given his current position.
“With nothing to lose,” commented Verstappen, “if we succeed, excellent; if not, life continues. I am not overly concerned about anything.”
Additional reporting by Ronald Vording and Filip Cleeren
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