Verstappen Seizes Momentum Ahead of Mexico GP Showdown

Max Verstappen emerged as the fastest driver in Practice 2 for the Formula 1 Mexican Grand Prix, showcasing his adaptability with the RB21. As he enters the twentieth round of the 2025 season, Verstappen is riding high on recent success, having secured three wins in the last four races. With the championship race tightening, he finds himself in close contention with Oscar Piastri, the current leader, and Lando Norris, both of whom have seen their earlier dominance with the McLaren MCL39 challenged.

The rivalry intensifies as Verstappen has closed the gap significantly, now poised to capitalize on any mistakes made by his competitors. This season has seen Piastri and Norris experience their share of incidents and controversies, which have contributed to shifting dynamics in the championship standings. While Verstappen has displayed remarkable consistency with three wins and two second-place finishes in his last five outings, the McLaren duo has not stood atop the podium since the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort.

Verstappen’s recent form can be attributed to both his skill and McLaren’s uncharacteristic errors, as acknowledged by their team principal, Andrea Stella. He emphasized the need for the team to elevate their performance to maintain their championship lead. The 28-year-old Dutch driver is aware that his title push hinges on both his ability to avoid misfortunes, such as mechanical failures, and on the reliability of the RB21 as the season progresses towards the final races.

Verstappen Reflects on Championship Mentality

In a recent interview with De Telegraaf, Verstappen discussed how his approach to this season’s championship differs from his previous battle against Lewis Hamilton in 2021. He noted, “That’s hard for me to say. Back then, that was also the game I played a bit. Will I do that again? I don’t need to. Back then, I’d never won a world title, and now I have a few. And they don’t.” His confidence contrasts sharply with that of Piastri and Norris, who have not yet claimed a world championship, making them “naturally more nervous” in this high-pressure environment.

Even as Verstappen builds momentum, many variables remain outside his control. Winning every remaining race and sprint does not guarantee him the title unless Piastri falters in his performance. The Australian maintains a 40-point lead, which could be sufficient even with several second-place finishes. Yet, McLaren’s recent performances suggest vulnerabilities, with the potential for both Mercedes and Ferrari to capitalize on any mistakes from the front-running teams.

As Verstappen prepares for the Mexican Grand Prix on October 29, 2025, the stakes are high, and the competition is fierce. His resurgence in form has firmly placed him back on McLaren’s radar, signaling an exciting conclusion to the season. With further updates and improvements anticipated for both Red Bull and McLaren, the championship battle promises to deliver thrilling moments as the series heads toward its climax in Abu Dhabi.