In the 2025 Formula 1 season, Max Verstappen‘s performance with Red Bull has experienced notable highs and lows, but now the reigning world champion appears to be mounting a strong comeback. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has issued a serious warning to McLaren regarding Verstappen’s resurgence, emphasizing that the Dutch driver remains a formidable threat in the driver’s title race despite recent challenges.
Verstappen’s Comeback After Midseason Difficulties
Max Verstappen faced a rough patch leading up to the summer break this year, following a promising start to the season with two early victories. Since then, however, the 27-year-old has rebounded impressively, winning the last two races and closing the gap to championship leader Oscar Piastri to just 69 points. According to Charles Leclerc, Verstappen’s return to form signals that Red Bull has made significant improvements in car performance, making them highly competitive once again.
Leclerc highlighted how Verstappen is leaving no opportunities unexploited on the track, stating that Red Bull’s recent gains in pace have brought the team back to a very strong level of performance. The Monegasque driver stressed that Red Bull, based in Milton Keynes, has taken a substantial step forward, which positions them well to continue contending for victories moving forward.
“I think Max is not leaving anything on the table, that’s for sure, I think they’ve done a big step forward with the car, and they are now at a very strong level as well.”
Charles Leclerc said, as reported by RacingNews365.
Recent Struggles for McLaren Underscore Red Bull’s Rise
Despite the encouraging signs for Red Bull, Leclerc acknowledged that the past two weekends had been difficult for McLaren, with performances falling short of their usual standards. Oscar Piastri suffered a Did Not Finish (DNF) in Baku, while teammate Lando Norris managed only a seventh-place finish. These results have given Leclerc reason to believe that Red Bull’s resurgence is real, even if they are not dominating as outright favorites at this stage.
“I don’t think that it’s been a very smooth weekend for McLaren in the last two races. So, I don’t think that Red Bull is now dominating again.”
Charles Leclerc added.
Assessment of Verstappen’s Current Edge Over Rivals
Leclerc pointed out that while the battle for the championship remains tight, Verstappen’s consistency and determination give him an advantage over McLaren at present. With seven races left in the 2025 season, the competition is expected to intensify, but Verstappen appears to be fully focused on avoiding errors and maximizing every opportunity to keep his championship hopes alive.
“I think it’s very close between McLaren and Red Bull, but Max is doing a better job at the moment.”
Charles Leclerc noted.
Verstappen’s approach is methodical as he tackles the remaining races one by one, fully aware that the title fight could still swing in any direction. His ability to maintain composure despite earlier setbacks shows why he remains a favorite in the title chase and why Leclerc’s warning to McLaren carries weight.
What the Season Ahead Holds for Verstappen and McLaren
Although Red Bull and Verstappen are on an upward trajectory, catching up to the championship leader Oscar Piastri and a McLaren team that has had moments of brilliance will be a significant challenge. Verstappen’s recent string of victories indicates that Red Bull may be regaining the dominance that helped him secure previous world titles, but the championship remains open.
The warning from Charles Leclerc serves as a reminder for McLaren not to underestimate Verstappen’s resilience or Red Bull’s improvements. As the season progresses, Verstappen’s ability to capitalize on every race will be crucial to determine if he can secure his fifth driver’s crown. Meanwhile, McLaren must regroup after recent subdued performances to defend their position and respond to the threat looming behind them.
