“A Firm Yes” – Why Andrea Stella Still Sees Max Verstappen as Top F1 Title Threat

Andrea Stella insists Max Verstappen remains a live title threat despite a 94-point deficit, after the Red Bull driver claimed pole in a chaotic Azerbaijan qualifying.

The McLaren boss weighs the numbers against form, arguing Verstappen’s speed and execution keep him in the championship conversation with 224 points still available.

Baku’s session underlined that point. Oscar Piastri crashed at Turn 4, Lando Norris struggled at Turn 15, and Verstappen converted clean laps into a commanding starting position.

Red Bull’s rebound began after a difficult Hungary, with Monza pace suggesting a reset rather than a track-specific outlier.

A new floor and revised setup improved platform control. Verstappen referenced increased grounding, indicating a lower, more stable aero window under load.

Helmut Marko expects competitiveness across layouts, while Stella’s post-Monza analysis supports the view it was not merely low-downforce flattering the car.

The competitive picture hinges on efficiency. Verstappen operates a quick car and is a four-time champion, whereas McLaren’s duo constantly trade points between themselves.

Mathematically, the task is extreme. Verstappen likely needs to sweep the remaining eight grands prix and the sprints in Austin, Brazil, and Qatar.

Even then, Piastri could protect a margin with consistent third places, while Norris sits 63 points clear of Verstappen in their secondary fight.

Historical precedents exist but are rare. Sebastian Vettel in 2010 and Kimi Raikkonen in 2007 both turned late-season surges into titles.

Verstappen downplays his chances publicly, yet remains an agenda-setter. His presence pressures McLaren operationally and strategically each weekend.

McLaren continues to iterate, drawing on recent concepts, including aerodynamic cues likened to “mermaid tails” elements, to refine medium-speed strengths.

The season’s endgame will balance raw performance, reliability, and error rate. Stella refuses to discount a Verstappen charge, even if probability sits against it.

For wider context on Verstappen’s long-term trajectory with the team, see his outlook on Red Bull in 2026 and how future regulations may reshape priorities.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.