Verstappen’s manager: 'Norris should've won the title earlier with McLaren'

18:01, 01 Jan

byKada Sarkozi

Max Verstappen's manager, Raymond Vermeulen, believes that Lando Norris and McLaren should have secured the drivers' title earlier than the season finale.

"McLaren made a lot more mistakes. With that car, Norris should have become champion much earlier, of course."

- Thierry Vermeulen

Verstappen remained in contention for the 2025 World Drivers' Championship until the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but the Dutchman eventually missed out on the title by two points.

Speaking to Formule1.nl, Vermeulen had nothing but praise for the four-time world champion after his stunning comeback.

He said: "This season has been a work of art by Max."

Red Bull Racing had difficult stints during the year, but managed to find its form after the summer break. Verstappen also pulled his weight to stay in contention, winning the final three rounds of the season.

According to Vermeulen, it would not have been possible without McLaren's help.

He added: "But if you turn it around, McLaren made a lot more mistakes.

"With that car, Norris should have become champion much earlier, of course."

Norris and Verstappen at the Las Vegas GP - Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Verstappen's 2025 effort gets recognized by the world of Formula 1

The driver's manager was also glad to see Verstappen receive broader recognition.

The four-time world champion was named the best driver of the season by his Formula 1 peers and team bosses.

The 1997 world champion, Jacques Villeneuve, was also full of praise of Verstappen. The Canadian also said that the 28-year-old would be capable of winning seven or eight championship should he have that target.

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