Overview
- After a dominant Austin weekend with pole, sprint win and grand prix victory, Max Verstappen trails Oscar Piastri by 40 points with five races and two sprints left, as Lando Norris sits 14 behind Piastri.
- McLaren confirmed no further MCL39 upgrades this season, while Red Bull’s new floor and front wing have boosted RB21 performance since Monza and Baku.
- Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko hinted the team “still have something up our sleeve,” though he did not specify timing or details.
- Pundits including Fernando Alonso and Damon Hill highlight Verstappen’s experience and relaxed approach, as Piastri acknowledges recent struggles but says past tight-title wins in juniors bolster his confidence.
- With 141 points still available and Mexico City next, observers warn Ferrari and Mercedes form could siphon points from McLaren, intensifying calls for the team to consider backing a single driver.