Max Verstappen delivered a masterful performance at the Japanese Grand Prix, sparking debate about whether the four-time world champion has turned the Formula 1 title race into a three-way battle with McLaren.
McLaren entered the weekend as favorites, with the Suzuka circuit seemingly ideal for their car`s characteristics. They had also secured victories in the previous two races in Australia and China, demonstrating strong race pace.
However, Verstappen secured pole position with a record-breaking lap at Suzuka. He then proceeded to win the race, holding off McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. This victory reduced Norris`s lead in the driver standings to just one point after three races.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner lauded Verstappen`s performance as “inch perfect,” marking Verstappen`s first win of the season after finishing second and fourth in Australia and China, respectively.
Despite McLaren seemingly possessing the fastest car for the third consecutive race weekend, this result provides them with significant food for thought.
Horner: Verstappen is the Top Driver
Horner emphasized the significance of perseverance and continuous improvement, stating that unlocking the car`s full potential could place them firmly in contention for the championship. He highlighted Verstappen`s Suzuka weekend as exemplary, affirming his belief that Verstappen is currently the best driver globally. Horner praised Verstappen`s qualifying performance and his flawless execution during the race, emphasizing the crucial role of teamwork in providing Verstappen with a winning car.
Horner acknowledged that Red Bull is aware of the car`s weaknesses and is committed to making necessary improvements.
Fernando Alonso suggests Verstappen is keeping the title fight alive, though he expressed concern about competing with McLaren`s superior car.
Verstappen himself acknowledged the need for further improvements despite the victory. He stated that while the win demonstrates their potential when everything is executed perfectly, consistent title contention demands ongoing car development and increased pace.
Norris Acknowledges Verstappen`s Strength
Lando Norris stated that Verstappen`s victory was not unexpected and anticipates a season-long rivalry. He affirmed his awareness of Verstappen`s capabilities and expects alternating race victories between them throughout the season.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella recognizes Verstappen as a threat but believes maintaining championship contention will be challenging for Verstappen without possessing the consistently fastest car. Stella emphasized the need for McLaren to maximize performance in qualifying and race execution to counter Verstappen`s exceptional driving. He hopes that future circuits with different tire degradation characteristics will allow McLaren to fully exploit their car`s potential, which he still believes to be superior. Stella concluded that while Verstappen`s individual skill is evident, consistently winning over a 24-race season is exceptionally difficult without the best overall car package.
Sky Sports F1 pundit Jacques Villeneuve cautioned Red Bull, suggesting that while Verstappen will always maximize opportunities, the car may struggle in hotter conditions.
Formula 1 action continues with the Bahrain Grand Prix, next on the calendar.
Wesley Dunham 
Gilbert Pendleton