Guenther Steiner claims Max Verstappen will be ‘under pressure’ if he makes mistakes in second half of 2024

Gunther Steiner insisted that Max Verstappen was not in a position to make mistakes in the close title fight for the 2024 title.

Guenther Steiner claims Max Verstappen will be ‘under pressure’ if he makes mistakes in second half of 2024

Gunther Steiner and Max Verstappen (images via IMAGO)

The second half of the Formula 1 season starts this week after the summer break. The first 14 races were thrilling, with Max Verstappen showing his usual strong performance. As the season went on, upgrades from other teams made it harder for Red Bull to maintain dominance. McLaren is just a few races away from overtaking Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship. Ex-Haas boss Gunther Steiner reckoned that if McLaren succeeds, Verstappen and Red Bull will face increased pressure.

Gunther Steiner mentioned that Max Verstappen has a significant opportunity to maintain his lead, but he needs to avoid making mistakes. If Verstappen makes even a few errors, he might face increased pressure from his competitors. The 59-year-old earlier mentioned, the Dutchaman as the ‘rockstar’ of the year so far. Steiner also pointed out that Lando Norris could potentially close the gap to the Dutchman if McLaren stops making mistakes. This will help them gain advantage over Red Bull in Constructors.

He's got the biggest chance, but he can make no mistake. If he makes a few mistakes, he's under pressure. I think Lando can still get close to him if McLaren stop making [mistakes].
Gunther Steiner told GPBlog
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Further, Steiner clarified that the comments made by him were not meant to criticize McLaren. He believed they are doing an excellent job . Steiner highlighted that, If McLaren truly believes in their abilities, they have the potential to win every race. The 59-year-old emphasized winning races also involves learning and improving over time.

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This s is not a criticism of McLaren. I think they're doing a fantastic job. But if they believe in themselves, they can win every race, because you need to learn to win as well.
Gunther Steiner added.
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Gunther Steiner asserts McLaren needs to take the ‘little step’ to win

Gunther Steiner mentioned that winning races is hard in F1, even if you have a fast car, but winning consistently is even tougher. He explained that for McLaren to become a strong competitor, they need to make a slight improvement and win races regularly. If they can overcome their fears and build confidence in their abilities, Lando Norris could become a serious challenger to Max Verstappen.

Andrea Stella and Lando Norris
Andrea Stella and Lando Norris (via IMAGO)
Winning is difficult, even if you're a good car, but consistent winning is very difficult. So if they can take that little step up and win consistently. That they are not afraid of themselves, then I think Lando can challenge Max.
Gunther Steiner stated.

Certainly, Steiner believes that with a little extra effort and self-belief, McLaren and Norris have the potential to consistently compete at the top level. Fans expect them to come back more stronger than they were in the first half and take more race victories.

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