P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen reveals his surprise at McLaren’s strategy blunder.
Max Verstappen expressed surprise that McLaren did not pit early in the Qatar Grand Prix, leading to a victory that sets up a dramatic title showdown in Abu Dhabi. Verstappen capitalized on McLaren’s strategy blunder during a Safety Car period and questioned their decision not to pit their drivers. With Lando Norris finishing fourth, Verstappen closed the championship gap to 12 points before the final race. Verstappen remains optimistic about his title chances, citing McLaren’s missed pit stop opportunity as a key factor in his victory. He highlighted his rivals’ failures throughout the season and credited strategic calls for keeping him in contention for a fifth world title.
