Max Verstappen delivered a stellar performance at the Japanese Grand Prix, raising the question of whether the four-time world champion has signaled a three-way battle for this year`s Formula 1 title, potentially involving McLaren.
McLaren entered the weekend as favorites, with the Suzuka circuit seemingly well-suited to their car`s characteristics.
Having secured victories in the initial two races of the season in Australia and China, including a dominant one-two finish in China, McLaren demonstrated strong race pace leading up to Japan.
However, Verstappen snatched pole position with a record-breaking Suzuka lap. He then proceeded to fend off McLaren`s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri during the race, narrowing Norris`s lead in the driver standings to a single point after three rounds.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner lauded Verstappen`s performance as `inch perfect` after securing his first win of the season, following second and fourth-place finishes in Australia and China, respectively.
Horner: Verstappen is the Best Driver
Horner commented, emphasizing the significance of perseverance: “This weekend proves that hard work and unwavering determination can achieve anything. Unlocking more of this car`s potential will place us firmly in contention.”
He added, “This was truly one of Max`s finest weekends. Undeniably, he is the best driver in the world today. The groundwork was laid in qualifying, and his race performance was flawless.”
“We dedicated ourselves to providing him with a car that allowed him to maximize his abilities, and he drove it exceptionally. His execution of the final chicane was decisive.”
“He acts as a motivator for our team, and nothing motivates more than winning. We are aware of this car`s weaknesses and know the areas that require improvement.”
Norris Acknowledges Verstappen`s Strength
Norris anticipates ongoing competition with Verstappen throughout the season and expressed no surprise at his rival`s exceptional performance in Japan.
Norris stated, “There`s no reason to be surprised by Max. I never have been. His capabilities are clear.”
He continued, “I remain confident that we will have competitive races, going head-to-head, with victories alternating between us.”
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella acknowledges Verstappen as a threat, though he believes maintaining a season-long challenge will be difficult for the reigning champion without consistently having the fastest car.
Stella explained, “When Max elevates his performance level, precision in qualifying and extracting every possible millisecond becomes crucial.”
“Hopefully, not all circuits will impose this degree of tire degradation as seen in Japan. On other tracks, we anticipate leveraging our full potential, as I still believe we possess the fastest car.”
“Max is currently making a significant difference, but sustaining a 24-event season without the best car is a considerable challenge.”
Sky Sports expert Jacques Villeneuve also cautioned Red Bull: “Max will always capitalize on opportunities, but this car may struggle in hotter conditions, becoming more challenging to manage.”
Marcus Prine