High Expectations for Verstappen: “I Think He’s Going to Win”

Max Verstappen has only a slim chance of winning his fifth Formula 1 world title this season. His deficit to the McLarens is large, but mathematically he is still in the fight. Juan Pablo Montoya is convinced a McLaren driver will become champion, yet he believes Verstappen will shine in Las Vegas. 

Verstappen has been in outstanding form during the second half of the season. Since his home race at Zandvoort, he has finished on the podium at every Grand Prix and claimed victories in Monza, Baku and Austin. As a result, he massively cut into the advantage of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri

But in the last two races, Verstappen’s deficit grew again. Red Bull lost ground in Mexico and Brazil, while Norris delivered two flawless weekends. Verstappen limited the damage by finishing third twice, but he now needs something extraordinary to catch and overtake his British rival. 

Can Verstappen Win the Next Race? 

The next Grand Prix takes place in Las Vegas. Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya shared his expectations with Poker Strategy. “I predict that Red Bull will win the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Max Verstappen is going to perform incredibly well, that’s what I expect. Lando Norris will also end up on the podium. The big question is whether Oscar Piastri has given up.” 

What Happens in the Title Fight? 

Montoya believes the dynamic within McLaren will play a big role in Las Vegas. “I think if Norris beats Piastri in Vegas, then it’s over for the Australian. Mentally. Las Vegas is the last chance for Piastri to make the difference and beat Norris. And that’s perfect. It’s an all-or-nothing race on a street circuit with long straights and a huge DRS zone. It will definitely be a great race.” 

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Driver profile

  • Team Red Bull Racing
  • Points 3,453
  • Podiums 127
  • Grand Prix 234
  • Country NL
  • Date of b. Sep 30 1997 (28)
  • Place of b. Hasselt (Belgie), NL
  • Weight 70 kg
  • Length 1.8 m
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