Max Verstappen navigated a chaotic Mexican Grand Prix, including a near crash at the start and a penalty for Hamilton, to secure a podium and stay in the championship hunt, with only 36 points behind the leader with five races remaining.
Max Verstappen has significantly closed the gap in the F1 Drivers' Championship, now just 40 points behind with five races remaining, raising the possibility of him winning the title. The season's dynamics have shifted with Red Bull's improved consistency and McLaren's struggles, making the championship race more competitive. Incidents and team strategies continue to influence the outcome, but Verstappen's recent form makes him a strong contender to clinch the title.
Jos Verstappen, father of Max Verstappen, expressed his pride and emotion as his son secured a third successive F1 championship title at the Qatar Grand Prix. Jos praised Max for his dominant performance throughout the year and credited his hard work and strong work ethic. Max's Red Bull contract runs through the 2028 season, and while the number of championships he will win remains uncertain, Jos emphasized the importance of enjoying the current success. Max aims to surpass his 2022 record of 15 race wins in a single season.
Max Verstappen extends his F1 Championship lead with a dominant victory at the Spanish Grand Prix ahead of Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. Verstappen's fifth win of the season was complete with the bonus point for fastest lap, moving him 53 points clear of Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez. Mercedes showed real signs of progress with a double podium finish, their first since the Brazilian Grand Prix last year.