Photo: Race Pictures

Another Verstappen 'masterclass' in Baku: 'He is extraordinary'

11:26, 23 Sep

Updated: 11:43, 23 Sep

byKada Sarkozi

Jonathan Wheatley had high praise for Max Verstappen after the Dutchman claimed his second victory in a row in Azerbaijan.

Max Verstappen celebrating in Baku - Photo: Race Pictures

"Well, it's the phrase, the cream rises to the top," Sauber team principal Jonathan Wheatley began about the Dutchman at Baku.

Last Sunday, Max Verstappen achieved a second victory in a row, having clear command over the race starting from pole position.

"I mean, I watched his on board for his qualifying yesterday, he never looked like he was going to hit the wall. He's just extraordinary. He knows how to get the most out of that car. Maybe it's two circuits that really suit his car."

As Red Bull Racing's sporting director, Wheatley previously worked with Verstappen.

"I've been constantly enjoying watching him race for the last..., I don't know, since 2014 or something. And today was, well, this weekend's another example of that. It was a masterclass," the Briton concluded.

Does Verstappen still have a shot at the 2025 world title?

With this victory, Max Verstappen is currently 69 points behind championship leader Oscar Piastri in the standings.

Former technical director Gary Anderson also expects Verstappen to be there if there is an opportunity.

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"Other tracks might not suit the RB21, but they will have learned a lot about a set up that suits his driving style and I would not be surprised if he is in contention.

"Give him even half a chance and he seems to take it. McLaren simply cannot afford to keep leaking points to him if they want a first drivers’ title since 2008," he explained.

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