Oct.22 (GMM) McLaren insists it will stay the course in the title fight despite Red Bull’s latest upgrade and mounting pressure from Max Verstappen.
Helmut Marko revealed in Austin that Red Bull still has “another car update up its sleeve” as the championship battle tightens.
“With a 40-point deficit, it’s a bit of an exaggeration to call it a striking distance,” Marko told Sky Deutschland. “But with five races and two sprints, it can still be really exciting.”
While Red Bull appears to be accelerating, many in the paddock believe McLaren has started to plateau. Team principal Andrea Stella, however, says the data from Austin was encouraging.
“In terms of trends, the race was relatively reassuring because, without the battle with Charles (Leclerc), which was certainly very entertaining, I think Lando had the pace to win the race,” Stella said.
But he confirmed McLaren’s development campaign is finished.
“As far as new upgrades and new parts are concerned, this will not happen for the rest of the season.”
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, meanwhile, says he’s watching the three-way title fight with fascination.
“I’ve been in a similar situation before, when two drivers were fighting for the championship and another driver was hot on their heels,” he said. “Back then, I think it was Max, and then it was Sebastian (Vettel) who was hot on their heels.”
Wolff believes Verstappen, who he still hopes to lure to Mercedes in 2027, is thriving in the chase. “The underdog always has a psychological advantage,” he said.
“The probability, the odds are definitely against Max. But a single retirement can change everything. And I think that also affects the driving. How aggressively can you actually be in an overtaking manoeuvre? We almost saw that with Lando,” he added after the US GP.
The Austrian also praised Verstappen’s form. “He’s as good as he gets as a driver.”
With the finale now fast approaching, anticipation is building. Former driver Robert Doornbos told Ziggo Sport: “I spoke to someone from the Abu Dhabi circuit today. Everything there was already sold out – there was absolutely nothing left.”
Although Oscar Piastri still leads the standings, Doornbos feels the Australian’s camp is playing things too safe. “They all remain politically correct,” he said. “You see that with Oscar Piastri too.
“I already said: ‘Where’s that fire in his eyes?’ It’s always about protecting the team. You could say ‘amazing media training’, but you miss a driver who simply shows his teeth.”
Piastri himself, though, remains relaxed despite Verstappen’s late-season charge. “I still prefer my position to the other two,” he said.
“Max has certainly made good progress in the last few races. But if we can find our pace again, I’m not worried. The championship is still long, but it’s not like the gap is that small with five races to go.”
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