P1racenews AI automatic summary:
From virtually nowhere, Max Verstappen could win a fifth consecutive F1 drivers’ title.
Max Verstappen has been declared “relaxed” and with “nothing to lose” in his F1 championship battle with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. Despite initially not being seen as a strong contender, Verstappen’s recent string of victories has brought him back into the fight. With three wins and two second-place finishes in the last five races, his performance has been remarkable. Key upgrades to his RB21 have vastly improved its aerodynamic grip and balance, allowing him to close the gap to Piastri to just 40 points. Red Bull’s commitment to car development contrasts with McLaren’s decision to halt upgrades, reflecting the challenges teams face in balancing priorities under the budget cap regulations. Damon Hill views Verstappen as the biggest threat in the title race, highlighting his relaxed approach and hunger for another world championship. Despite the uncertainty, Hill acknowledges that, at this stage, Max Verstappen seems to be the one to watch in the championship battle.
