Max Verstappen’s pursuit of a fifth Formula 1 title has reignited following a decisive victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, narrowing the gap to championship leader Oscar Piastri. After Piastri failed to finish in Baku, Verstappen’s fourth win of the season has brought new attention to the potential for a dramatic Max Verstappen title comeback.
Until recently, McLaren Racing’s Oscar Piastri had been regarded as the frontrunner for the 2025 F1 crown, dominating much of the season and maintaining a strong podium record. However, Piastri’s recent struggles, especially his retirement in Baku and teammate Lando Norris’s seventh-place finish, contrasted sharply with Verstappen’s smooth victory, raising questions about the Australian’s hold on the lead. Verstappen now sits 69 points behind Piastri but may be poised to claw back ground if circumstances unfold in his favor.
Verstappen’s Perspective on Chasing a Fifth Title
Despite his deficit in points, Verstappen remains measured about his chances to claim another championship. The Dutch driver has delivered multiple wins this season but is aware of the significant lead held by Piastri, who tops the standings with 324 points and has extended his cushion over Norris to 25 points. Verstappen, reflecting on the title chase after Azerbaijan, remarked,
I don’t rely on hope, but there are seven rounds left, and 69 points is a lot. So I personally don’t think about it.
Max Verstappen
This pragmatic approach continues as Verstappen focuses on incremental progress rather than the overall title race, stating,
I just take it race by race, which is what I’ve been doing basically the whole season – trying to do the best we can, trying to score as many points as possible. And then after Abu Dhabi, we’ll know.
Max Verstappen
Toto Wolff Weighs in on Verstappen’s Title Prospects
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, who observed the events in Baku closely, offered an insightful analysis of the evolving championship battle. While acknowledging Verstappen’s recent success and the competitiveness of Red Bull’s car, Wolff urged caution and humility in assessing the situation:
You always have to stay grounded and humble. He’s [Verstappen] had a good run, the car is good.
Toto Wolff
Wolff also emphasized Verstappen’s potential to disrupt the standings should opportunity strike, particularly if Piastri experiences more misfortune:
With Max Verstappen, you always have to be wary of what he can achieve – especially if he realizes he’s back in the picture.
Toto Wolff
Highlighting the fine margins that could reshape the championship, Wolff explained,
Things need to work in his favour. But you can see a DNF for the championship leader and everything, and Max scoring 25 points. So that can swing quickly.
Toto Wolff
Referring directly to the points difference, Wolff remarked,
What’s the gap? 69 points? Well, that’s a long shot. Things need to work in his [Verstappen’s] favour. But you can see a DNF for the championship leader and everything, and Max scoring 25 points. So that can swing quickly.
Toto Wolff
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities for Verstappen
While Wolff’s analysis paints a scenario where a single misstep by Piastri could allow Verstappen to close in rapidly, the Dutch driver faces a steep challenge. With just seven races remaining in the season, overcoming a 69-point deficit demands both consistent excellence from Verstappen and incidents hampering Piastri’s campaign. The recent setback in Baku for Piastri demonstrated how quickly the title landscape can change, but given McLaren’s overall performance and Norris’s support, Verstappen’s path remains demanding.
As the season progresses through the remaining Grand Prix events, the intensity of this championship battle will only increase. Verstappen’s strategic focus on maximizing points each race underscores his recognition of the narrow margin for error. Meanwhile, Piastri’s resilience and current form position him strongly to maintain his grip on the championship lead. The tension between these two top contenders sets the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 Formula 1 season.
Toto Wolff says Max Verstappen is a Piastri DNF away from being back into title contention
"Things need to work in his favour. But you can see a DNF for the championship leader and everything, and Max scoring 25 points. So that can swing quickly."
[https://t.co/WYVohQahVh] pic.twitter.com/NtH4grH6FB
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) September 24, 2025
Toto Wolff says Max Verstappen is a Piastri DNF away from being back into title contention
"Things need to work in his favour. But you can see a DNF for the championship leader and everything, and Max scoring 25 points. So that can swing quickly."
[https://t.co/WYVohQahVh] pic.twitter.com/NtH4grH6FB
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) September 24, 2025
