Max Verstappen has dismissed suggestions that his Formula 1 title hopes slipped away with defeats in Mexico and Brazil, insisting that Red Bull’s early-season struggles were the real reason behind his deficit to Lando Norris.
The Dutchman cut the gap to the McLaren drivers after the summer break, briefly reigniting the championship battle. However, Norris’ back-to-back victories in Mexico City and São Paulo have left Verstappen 49 points behind the Briton with three rounds to go.
Starting from the pit lane in Brazil, Verstappen fought through the field to finish third and remain mathematically in contention.
When asked if Red Bull’s car changes after qualifying could provide an edge in the remaining races, Verstappen replied:
“Very different tracks, so it’s difficult to know, to be honest. That’s what we have to focus on in the coming races.”
Verstappen admitted the team’s sluggish start to the season, rather than recent setbacks, was the decisive factor in the title race.
“What are we – 49 points behind now? We didn’t lose the championship here,” he said.
“We lost the championship from race one until Zandvoort. We had a lot of weekends where we simply weren’t quick enough. Then, of course, you get a big gap.
“We had good moments where we got some points back, but not enough. That’s how the season goes.”
With three races remaining, Verstappen and Red Bull will be hoping to end the season strongly and carry momentum into 2026.
