Max Verstappen remains a strong contender for the 2025 driver’s title despite facing challenges with what many consider a less competitive chassis this season. After a dip in form that placed him behind rivals, the Dutchman has rebounded with two consecutive victories since the Italian Grand Prix, reigniting hopes for the Max Verstappen 2025 Title among fans and experts alike. Former Formula 1 driver Giedo van der Garde has publicly voiced his confidence in Verstappen’s chances, emphasizing improvements in both the driver’s performance and Red Bull’s car.
Verstappen Defies Expectations Amid Tough Competition
At the start of the season, McLaren’s drivers, Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, appeared to hold the advantage in the title fight due to their team’s strong performance. However, Verstappen has demonstrated remarkable determination and skill, delivering consistent results despite operating what is widely seen as an inferior chassis. Since the summer break, Verstappen has shown renewed vigor, with Red Bull making notable progress in car pace and reliability, helping him close the gap on the championship leaders.
Van der Garde’s backing is significant considering the skepticism around Verstappen’s car earlier in the campaign. The former racer openly dismissed the chances of Piastri and Norris claiming the championship, placing his bet firmly on Verstappen to clinch his fifth world title this year. His confidence stems from the belief that Verstappen’s car has become considerably more competitive, a shift that could prove decisive as the season progresses.
I think that neither Piastri nor Norris will become world champions, while I believe that Max will become one – his car has become much more competitive.
Giedo van der Garde said, as reported by formulapassion.it
Races Where Verstappen Holds the Upper Hand
With seven races left in the season and Max Verstappen currently 69 points behind leader Oscar Piastri, the title battle remains intense and suspenseful. Van der Garde highlighted that only two venues on the remaining calendar, the Singapore Grand Prix and the Qatar Grand Prix, strongly favor the McLarens, particularly Lando Norris. Both tracks are known for Norris’s strong performances, making them potential stumbling blocks for Verstappen’s push.
However, for all other upcoming races, van der Garde expressed optimism about Verstappen’s chances of victory, viewing him as the frontrunner for the remaining wins and the championship. This perspective underscores the urgency for Red Bull to continue closing the gap in car performance to sustain Verstappen’s challenge.
If you think about it, in reality there are only two Grand Prix that are very good for McLaren. This is Singapore, where Lando Norris is really good, and Qatar. But the others? I bet Max will win.
Giedo van der Garde noted
Red Bull’s Challenge and Verstappen’s Focus Moving Forward
Despite van der Garde’s optimism, Red Bull still faces considerable pressure to maintain and enhance its competitive edge over McLaren and other rivals in the closing stages of 2025. Verstappen himself remains cautious and grounded, acknowledging that the title race is far from decided and emphasizing a race-by-race approach to stay focused. His measured attitude reflects an understanding of the season’s demands and the unpredictability that often defines Formula 1 campaigns.
The developments this season hold significant implications not just for Verstappen but for the broader dynamics within Formula 1, with a fierce title battle shaping up as the final stretch unfolds. Should Verstappen capitalize on the recent car improvements and maintain his momentum, he could secure a historic fifth championship, further cementing his status among the sport’s elite.
