F1 analyst Ted Kravitz believes that Max Verstappen is strategically positioned, described as “waiting to pounce like the lion that he is,” on Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in the intense Formula 1 championship battle.
Verstappen recently secured his second consecutive victory with a commanding performance in Azerbaijan. This triumph coincided with championship leader Piastri crashing out of the race, while his McLaren teammate Norris managed only a seventh-place finish.
This turn of events allowed Verstappen, who is aiming for an impressive fifth successive drivers` title, to significantly close the points gap. With just seven rounds remaining in the season, he is now 69 points behind Piastri and 44 points adrift of Norris.
Speaking on *The F1 Show*, Kravitz emphasized Verstappen`s advantageous position, indicating that he is primed to execute a strategy designed to pressure the McLaren drivers, both of whom are still seeking their maiden drivers` crown.
“He recognizes his strong comeback primarily because he possesses the right car, that`s the key factor,” Kravitz noted.
Kravitz further elaborated on Red Bull`s long-term strategy: contingent on having a competitive car, their plan was always to maintain close proximity to the McLaren duo. They aimed to wait for this precise moment in the season, when pressure is at its peak, and capitalize on the unique challenges presented by unconventional and demanding circuits such as Baku, Singapore, Qatar, Austin, and Las Vegas.
Rupert Hollis 
Marcus Prine