At the location where he won his first ever Grand Prix, Max Verstappen appears less than optimistic on Thursday about his chances for renewed success in Spain, as well as in the fight for the world title. According to him, there is currently no competition with McLaren.
The year is already eight races in, but at one-third of the season, Verstappen is far from thinking about winning a fifth Formula 1 world title. A few pole positions, a few victories, and ‘only’ 25 points behind; it’s indeed a commendable performance, considering that McLaren is widely believed to have the fastest car.
“But still, it really feels like we’re in a fight with McLaren,” Verstappen responds to the suggestion that drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are also primarily taking points from each other, which could work in his favor in the title race. Call it resignation, call it indifference; the Dutchman tries to find his joy mainly in achieving the maximum result – whatever that may be each weekend.
“I’m doing my best, I’m trying to have fun. At this moment, this is not a season I will remember for long. Good things have happened, but also bad things. In some races, we totally lacked speed. That’s never fun.” Yet, he doesn’t throw in the towel. “The fighting spirit is still there, it will never disappear. But that doesn’t mean I enjoy everything.”
