Max Verstappen's father admits his son took a step “very positive” towards his fourth consecutive world drivers' championship title on Sunday.
Verstappen had been losing points to Lando Norris for some time, but the gap is back to a much more comfortable level of 62 points with just three races remaining.
The Dutchman can even win the title next time in Las Vegas. He just has to leave Vegas with at least 60 points in his pocket since the last two races include a Sprint in Qatar, allowing him to collect 8 points in addition to twice 26 points.
In other words, Verstappen can be content to finish ahead of Norris or only give up 2 points at most during the next Grand Prix to be titled for the 4th time.
When asked if this was a crucial moment in an intense battle in 2024, Verstappen nodded: “I mean, looking at it, it was incredibly important because I expected to lose points.”
“I'm not thinking about winning the championship in Vegas, I just want clean races until the end. But if I'm world champion, I will definitely think about this Grand Prix.”
Max's father Jos Verstappen thinks “that he really showed who is the best, the best, especially after everything these English journalists, these former English drivers and these English commentators have said.”
“I've been through a lot with him, but today was definitely one of the best moments. We saw that a lot of things can always happen, and very quickly. We still have three races to go, and We have a little rest now, but it’s looking good.”
Even Max had a message for his critics at the FIA press conference after the race: “I have a quick question. I appreciate you all being here, but I don't see any British press. Did they have to run to the airport? Or do they not know where the press conference is?”
Lando Norris was obviously frustrated yesterday.
“Max drove well and got lucky with the free tire change. It was a road flag gamble that paid off – it's not talent, it's just luck.”
Either way, Norris now needs 21 points more than Verstappen per remaining race weekend. Even McLaren boss Andrea Stella admits it is a setback in the drivers' championship for Norris.
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Max for a really strong and impressive race, starting from the back of the grid, and Alpine, they did a good job. They deserve to be on the podium. Well done to them.”
“Then, for the championship… Belief always depends on the mathematical situation. It is clear that Max gave a strong signal. It is also a reminder of his strength. We have always recognized his qualities.”
“He’s a three-time world champion who is on his way to his fourth title. It’s fully deserved.”
“But while we still have a theoretical chance, we will try to make it more difficult for him to win this fourth title.”
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