Verstappen: 'No need' to play mind games with Piastri and Norris

Verstappen: Piastri and Norris “naturally more nervous”

Throughout the season, Piastri and Norris have been involved in a handful of incidents and controversial moments. However, Verstappen’s electric form and renewed title hopes adds a new level of intensity to this season’s race.

With three wins and two second place finishes in the last five rounds, Verstappen is showing a level of consistency the McLaren duo have not. In fact, neither papaya car has taken the top step of the podium since Zandvoort.

To some degree, unforced errors – from a driver and operational perspective – have been integral to the changing title dynamics.

McLaren’s Andrea Stella has admitted his personnel must raise their level if they want to combat Verstappen’s resurgence. The 28-year-old’s title charge is also dependent on avoiding misfortune – whether it be a mechanical failure or unlucky incident.

In this sense, nothing is guaranteed for the reigning Champion. At the same time, Verstappen feels there is still an opportunity to secure the title – provided Red Bull optimise the RB21 until Abu Dhabi.

Should Red Bull provide competitive machinery, the Dutchman is confident that he can make the difference in a direct battle with the McLarens.

Speaking to De Telegraaf, he explained why his approach to this year’s unexpected title race differs to his battle with Lewis Hamilton:

“That’s hard for me to say. Back then [in 2021], that was also the game I played a bit. Will I do that again? I don’t need to.

“Back then, I’d never won a world title, and now I have a few. And they [Norris and Piastri] don’t.

“And at this stage, you’re naturally more nervous if you haven’t become world champion yet than if you already have those titles.”

Another test for Red Bull

Ultimately, there are still many things outside of Max Verstappen’s control that will determine this year’s Champion.

Even if he wins every remaining race and sprint, he is reliant on Piastri leaving points on the table. Second place finishes until the end of the year would be enough for the Australian to retain his 40-point lead.

Then again, it cannot be said McLaren are comfortable with their existing advantage. The last twelve months indicate both Andrea Stella’s trackside operations team and drivers are capable of dropping more points.

Not only have Red Bull made significant gains with the RB21, but more updates are in the pipeline. In this scenario, McLaren could find themselves vulnerable to Mercedes and Ferrari – who are capable of upsets in the right conditions.

Regardless of how the season ends, Verstappen will be very pleased that he’s now firmly on McLaren’s radar.