Max Verstappen’s remarkable late-season surge in the 2025 Formula 1 title fight has drawn a colourful comparison from David Coulthard — who likened it to Elvis Presley’s iconic 1968 comeback.
After the Dutch Grand Prix, Verstappen trailed Oscar Piastri by a massive 104 points. But since the Italian Grand Prix, the Red Bull star has exploded back into contention with five wins in eight races, plus two podiums and a Sprint victory in the United States.
Meanwhile, Piastri has hit a slump, slipping behind both Verstappen and championship leader Lando Norris. Heading into the Abu Dhabi finale, the standings couldn’t be tighter:
- Lando Norris — 408 points
- Max Verstappen — 396 points
- Oscar Piastri — 392 points
For Verstappen to claim the world title, he must finish on the podium — and if he wins, Norris can finish no higher than third.
Coulthard marvelled at Verstappen’s turnaround on Channel 4:
“This is like the greatest comeback since Elvis’ 1968 TV special. He’s come out swinging and changed the perception of a lot of people who weren’t Max fans. They now have to acknowledge how strong and consistent he’s been.”
The former Red Bull and McLaren driver added that Verstappen will arrive in Abu Dhabi with full momentum:
“No question Max is going to be skipping into the paddock. It’ll feel like race one for him, not race 24.”
However, he warned that nothing is guaranteed:
“McLaren won there last year. On paper the track suits their car, so it’s a complete reset.”
The stage is set for a three-way showdown at Yas Marina — with Verstappen chasing one of the most dramatic title steals in modern F1 history.
