Dec.3 (GMM) Two prominent paddock voices have delivered scathing assessments of McLaren’s late-season collapse, warning that the team’s blunders in Las Vegas and Qatar may hand Max Verstappen the 2025 world championship.
Bild veteran Helmut Uhl mocked the explanations coming from Zak Brown and Andrea Stella after the Qatar safety car pit strategy fiasco.
“When I hear these flimsy excuses, they’re making a fool of themselves as the most clueless people in Formula 1,” he charged.
“In a situation like that, every team would go in for a free tyre change – every single one! Which is exactly what happened!
“Except for those idiots.”
Uhl even suggested the team narrative around its two drivers had become so distorted that it’s not ridiculous to suggest “McLaren stole the title from Piastri”.
“The ‘new guy’ must not become the first world champion after the 17-year drought,” he said. “After all these incomprehensible reactions, one is almost tempted to wish Max Verstappen all the best for the last race.”
Former Red Bull driver Christian Klien echoed the criticism on Austria’s Servus TV, calling McLaren’s Qatar strategy “completely botched” and warning that the pressure may now overwhelm Lando Norris.
“I wouldn’t want to be in Lando’s shoes,” the Austrian admitted.
Klien said Verstappen’s comeback from 104 points behind Piastri after the summer break had relied on McLaren repeatedly failing at crucial moments.
“Nine teams and 18 drivers knew they had to pit on lap 7 – only McLaren thought they knew better,” he said. “It can’t be that McLaren was so wrong.”
He believes the team froze under pressure.
“McLaren was frozen in shock,” said Klien. “Lando should have been told immediately what to do. McLaren is very biased because they want to give both drivers the same opportunity. Now that’s increasingly backfiring on them.”
With Yas Marina now looming, Klien said the dynamic is obvious: “There are two drivers who have nothing to lose – Max and Oscar.
“There is one who has everything to lose, and that is Lando Norris.”
McLaren has also drawn raised eyebrows for its timing this weekend, with Oscar Piastri sitting out FP1 – in the decisive final event of the year – to make room for Pato O’Ward’s mandatory rookie outing.
“Max and Red Bull Racing are not making any mistakes at the moment,” Klien warned. “Everything is set for an ultra-exciting finale.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES