Leclerc answers: can Verstappen steal McLaren’s thunder?

15:27, 25 Sep

Updated: 16:50, 25 Sep

byNorberto Mujica

Charles Leclerc has given his view on whether Max Verstappen can turn the title fight around after Red Bull’s recent resurgence.

Photo: RacePictures

I'll be very surprised if Verstappen wins the title. I think Oscar [Piastri] or Lando [Norris] have got it this year.

- Charles Leclerc.

The Dutchman has claimed back-to-back victories in Monza and Azerbaijan, helped by a new floor upgrade introduced at the Italian Grand Prix and his own setup feedback that has brought the RB21 back into contention.

"I think Max is not leaving anything on the table, that's for sure. I think they've done a big step forward with the car and they are now at a very strong level as well," Leclerc said.

He continued adding nuance to the situation regarding the Drivers' title. "I don't think that it's been a very smooth weekend for McLaren in the last two weekends, so I don't think that Red Bull is now dominating again."

"I think it's very close between McLaren and Red Bull, but Max is doing a better job at the moment, and congratulations to him."

The Ferrari driver admitted Verstappen’s recent run has been impressive but remains convinced the championship is still McLaren’s to lose.

"I'll be very surprised if Verstappen wins the title. I think Oscar [Piastri] or Lando [Norris] have got it this year."

The lead Piastri holds over Verstapen is of 69 points. With seven Grands Prix to go, can Verstappen achieve the greatest underdog feat in modern Formula 1?

Verstappen splits the F1 paddock

With his recent performances, some argue Verstappen is very much so back into contention for the title. Mercedes team principal and CEO Toto Wolff believes the Dutchman can never be written off, particularly if he sees there’s still a chance.

McLaren boss Andrea Stella supported Wolff’s statements even going as far as to declare that Verstappen was indeed back in the fight for the Drivers’ Championship.

Like Leclerc, though, double World Champion Fernando Alonso also claimed that the feat was beyond the Dutchman’s reach, stating that the outcome was under McLaren’s control.

GPblog’s latest F1 Paddock update

Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.