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The current Formula 1 season is approaching its climax. Max Verstappen still has a theoretical chance of winning the world title, although his deficit to the McLarens remains significant. Juan Pablo Montoya does not believe Verstappen can become champion this year, but he says next season could be far more decisive for the Dutchman’s future.
Thanks to his strong performances in the second half of the season, Verstappen is still mathematically in contention. Since his home race at Zandvoort, he has stood on the podium at every Grand Prix and claimed victories in Italy, Azerbaijan and the United States. He also benefitted from trouble for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, allowing him to cut into their advantage.
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But in the most recent races in Mexico and Brazil, Norris hit peak form and extended his lead again. Verstappen finished third twice, but that was not enough to keep his title challenge truly alive.
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Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya believes Verstappen’s title hopes are effectively over. Speaking to Poker Strategy, he said: “The dynamic at McLaren will change, no matter who wins the championship.”
Montoya expects internal tension in the future. “I think the relationship between the drivers and the team will deteriorate, because each will say: ‘You didn’t do enough to help me win the championship.’ It will be difficult to keep both Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris satisfied. How are they going to enforce those Papaya Rules next year?”
“Then Verstappen Will Quit”
Montoya also believes Verstappen’s own future could be affected. The Colombian even suggests Verstappen could walk away. “The big question next year is who has the dominant car. It could easily be Alpine, Aston Martin or Mercedes. We simply don’t know. If Red Bull ends up being slower than most of the grid, Max probably won’t stay for the whole year. Then he will take a sabbatical.”
Azerbaijan Grand Prix
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