Max Verstappen‘s “Ridiculous” Comeback Has Title Fight Wide Open Again
Max Verstappen is turning what seemed like a lost season into one of the most remarkable comebacks in recent Formula 1 history.
The Dutchman has slashed what was once a massive 104-point deficit after summer break to just 40 points, putting the McLaren duo of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris firmly in his sights.
Former teammate Daniel Ricciardo couldn’t hide his amazement at Verstappen’s recent form.
“Max is ridiculous. Kid’s so good. Yes, I am stating the obvious now,” the Australian shared in a WhatsApp group chat with fans.
Before summer break, Verstappen had managed just two wins during a challenging season. But since Red Bull made changes to the RB21, the four-time world champion has claimed three victories in the last four races, breathing new life into what seemed an impossible title hunt.
His latest triumph at the United States Grand Prix has the paddock buzzing.
Ricciardo, who raced alongside Verstappen at Red Bull from 2016 to 2018, even joked about his former teammate’s confidence: “Max is contacting the restaurant about his steak cooked medium rare for later tonight.” A playful nod to Verstappen being so comfortable during races that he’s already planning his evening meal.
“I am looking forward to it, and Max is keeping this championship even more exciting than it already was,” added the six-time Grand Prix winner.
## Paddock in Awe of Verstappen’s Form
The turnaround has left F1 insiders stunned. Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies didn’t hold back, calling Verstappen’s current form “history in the making.”
Even rival team boss Toto Wolff had to tip his hat to the 27-year-old’s performances, describing his pace as “as good as it gets as a driver.”
With just five races remaining in the 2025 season, the championship battle looks set to go down to the wire.
And there might be more to come. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko hinted that the team has “something up our sleeve” before the season concludes – potentially giving Verstappen an extra edge as he hunts down a fifth consecutive world title.
What seemed impossible just a few months ago now feels increasingly within reach. Can anyone stop Max Verstappen’s incredible late-season charge?