P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen recalled his realisation that victory in the F1 Qatar GP was a possibility amid McLaren’s surprising strategy call.
Max Verstappen realized the possibility of winning the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix when McLaren made a surprising strategy call.
He took advantage of pitting under a Safety Car on Lap 7, allowing flexibility in strategy due to the 25-lap maximum tyre window.
McLaren’s decision to keep both Piastri and Norris out while other teams pitted cost them significantly, leading to Verstappen’s victory after a well-timed second stop on Lap 32.
Verstappen initially focused on getting the pit stop right, but the absence of McLarens in the pit lane made him realize the opportunity to win.
Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies expressed surprise at McLaren’s call, as did Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur, underscoring the impact McLaren’s decision had on the race and championship standings.
The strategic blunder by McLaren in Qatar sets up a thrilling three-way title decider in Abu Dhabi, with Verstappen now just 12 points behind Norris in the Drivers’ World Championship.
