MAX IS REALLY BACK

McLaren’s worst nightmare is becoming reality: Max Verstappen is back in the hunt for the 2025 World Championship. After the Dutch Grand Prix, the gap to Norris was over one hundred points; today, the Red Bull champion has already clawed back more than sixty. And if there’s one driver you don’t want to face in a title-deciding run, it’s him.

There are many reasons behind this shift: mechanical failures, questionable strategies, messy pit stops, and a few avoidable mistakes. A combination of small missteps that, added up, have reopened a championship that once looked securely in McLaren’s hands. And Verstappen, on his side, wasted no time in seizing the opportunity.

In Austin, he was flawless. His RB21 confirmed the progress seen over the past few races: a car that’s finally consistent, able to adapt to vastly different circuits and conditions. Red Bull’s aerodynamic work — allowing for a lower ride height without compromising stability — paid off even on the tricky Texas track, one of the most challenging for anyone who dares to “run low.”

In qualifying, Red Bull had always held its own, but since Monza the race pace has improved dramatically. The result is clear: Verstappen is back in the picture, threatening, and for Norris and Piastri the final stretch of the season looks anything but comfortable.

Lando, to his credit, handled a tough weekend well. After being taken out in the chaos of Turn 1 on Saturday, he stormed back in the race to finish second — a strong result, though it leaves a bitter taste considering the potential of the MCL39. The Brit didn’t put a foot wrong, yet against a Verstappen in this kind of form, something always seems to be missing.

Piastri, on the other hand, endured a more complicated Sunday. His setup was conservative, his pace unconvincing, and a simple track limits error in the fight with Leclerc cost him dearly, shaping much of his race. Add another subpar pit stop to the mix, and it’s clear the Australian never really found his rhythm. He brought the car home safely and took what he could, but without ever feeling truly in contention.

As for Leclerc — started third, finished third. He never had the pace to fight for the win, nor to consistently keep Hamilton behind, who for long stretches looked faster.

Hamilton, meanwhile, put together a great weekend: steady, clean, and sharp. His start was superb — two passes around the outside on Piastri and Russell — yet curiously went almost unnoticed. Overall, the Brit made the difference where it mattered.

Also noteworthy was Hulkenberg, finishing eighth after a solid, no-nonsense drive ahead of Bearman and Alonso, who ended up only tenth. Aston Martin continues to disappoint: huge investments, bold promises, and increasingly modest results.

The picture is clear: McLaren has reopened the door to the one rival they should have kept locked out. Verstappen is back, and when he rediscovers his speed, confidence, and consistency — everyone else already knows how the story ends.

© Simone Marchetti Cavalieri

Race Frame