P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren is facing a late-season threat from Max Verstappen, who is looking to cause an upset and seal his fifth F1 title this year.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has justified the team’s decision to cease development on the 2025 car due to the threat from Max Verstappen towards the end of the season. Verstappen’s recent victories have eroded McLaren’s earlier advantage in the championship race. As the Mexico City Grand Prix looms, Championship leader Oscar Piastri holds a slim 40-point lead over Verstappen, with Lando Norris 26 points ahead. Red Bull’s late-season success is fueled by continuous upgrades to their RB21 car. Stella emphasized that shifting focus to the 2026 project was crucial to ensuring McLaren’s competitiveness in future championships.
