McLaren still aims to ‘disrupt’ Max Verstappen’s fourth title despite Lando Norris’ massive points deficit
McLaren is still hopeful of meddling in Max Verstappen's championship ambitions in the 2024 season despite strong performances.
Follow Us
Max Verstappen and Lando Norris (via The Times)
Max Verstappen created history after achieving an extremely impressive victory at the Brazilian GP amidst Red Bull’s struggles. The Dutchman received praise from everyone on the grid and even his biggest competitor currently, McLaren. The Woking-based constructor is still confident of their chances of taking Lando Norris to the Drivers’ championship despite Verstappen’s masterclass performances.
Speaking upon Max Verstappen‘s stellar race win at the Brazilian GP, Andrea Stella didn’t hesitate to applaud the former. Verstappen’s win in Brazil meant that he extended the championship lead to 62 points over Lando Norris. However, despite the massive deficit, Stella still was hoping for the ‘mathematical possibility’ of Norris catching up at the forefront despite ‘strong’ performances.
The belief always depends on the mathematical possibility. Max clearly gave a signal, I would say, with a reminder of how strong he is.
Andrea Stella told Viaplay
Stella further pointed out that the team always ‘recognized’ Verstappen’s qualities. The Italian believed that the Dutchman’s fourth title victory was very much deserved to him. However, due to the numerical possibility of Norris catching up to the 27-year-old in the championship, Stella was hopeful of disrupting the route for the championship leader.
We have always recognized his qualities. Max is a three-time world champion and is now on his way to his fourth title. That is very well deserved, but as long as we have the numerical possibility, we will try to disrupt his route to the title.
Andrea Stella added
McLaren does not ‘regret’ pitting Lando Norris under safety car
McLaren decided to pit Lando Norris during the safety car as Max Verstappen was able to breeze past the former. This safety car was followed by a red flag due to Franco Colapinto‘s crash at a crucial moment. Hence, Verstappen could easily take the race lead and go on to win the race. However, Andrea Stella highlighted that the team did not regret this decision despite it costing them the race win.
We need to look at a number of things, such as the position we lost for the red flag. We thought it was the right choice to make a pit stop, because there was much more rain. We don’t regret it either. It was a cautious pit stop, but in the end it paid off for the cars behind us.
Andrea Stella noted
The 2024 season has peaked in competition and excitement due to the championship seemingly open for multiple teams and drivers. Verstappen’s win in Brazil might just have sealed his victory for the Drivers’ championship this season. Moreover, the Constructors’ championship might witness a shift in order amidst Ferrari’s revival in performance.
Stay Updated!
Aditya Pandya
(1440 Articles Published)