Horner points to McLaren advantage that let Piastri 'make love' to Norris' exhaust pipe

With Max Verstappen out of contention early into the race, and Yuki Tsunoda's dismal Grand Prix, Horner looked toward McLaren and highlighted McLaren's advantage for media present at the track including GPblog.

What were the factors that made McLaren so strong at the Red Bull Ring? "I think temperature is always one. Long corners, they're particularly strong in," said the British boss.

According to Horner, the tyre advantage McLaren hold over the rest is built on two essential elements. "They've managed to create a car that really protects its tyres very well, and obviously has a good balance. I can't see any other car that would be able to follow that closely and not grain the front tyres or the rear tyres."

As far as Verstappen's title chances go in the 2025 F1 season, Horner admitted they're not thinking about the championship, contradicting previous statements where he put the Dutchman still in the championship fray. These words were echoed by Helmut Marko, the team's top advisor, in a stark forecast for Verstappen's championship hopes.