RedBull concern over McLaren’s growth: is F1 broken?

Norris’ surprising performance has raised alarms in Verstappen’s team, which sees how its leadership in the constructors’ and drivers’ championships could be at risk.

McLaren’s performance in the latest Formula 1 races has raised alarms at Red Bullwho began to notice the growing threat of the British group. Although Max Verstappen’s lead in the drivers’ championship remains large, what happened at the Dutch Grand Prix shows a change in trend that has not gone unnoticed.

At the Zandvoort circuit,Lando Norris took the win with a difference of almost 23 seconds over Verstappenwho can’t celebrate at home. Because of this result, Red Bull became alert the gap in the constructors’ championship was reduced to just 30 points (434 against 404), a worrying situation for a team that has dominated the last three seasons with Verstappen as a central figure.

RedBull alarm over McLaren’s performance

Helmut Marko, Red Bull adviser, did not hide his concern recognition of the speed shown by Norris: “Norris already has the necessary speed to catch Max in the championship”Marko’s statement. Verstappen leads with 295 points, but Norris is close behind with 225, marking a more competitive scenario than expected.

own Christian Horner, Red Bull team manager, emphasized the need not to rest: “It’s only the fourth time this year that our lead has been cut, but we have to keep adding to it. The days we don’t win, we have to finish second“said. Today’s strategy involves minimizing losses and securing key points in each race to maintain the advantage.

Verstappen also expressed frustration at the handling of the problems that you have experienced: “Improper balance, tires wear out quickly. The car is difficult to drive, with oversteer and understeer”he explained, pointing out that these deficiencies have been consistent in recent competitions.

As the season progressed, The possibility of McLaren cutting the gap further doesn’t seem impossible. Norris needs to deduct 70 points over the remainder of the calendar, a difficult but not unattainable task. With three Sprint Races remaining, which award up to eight points to the winner, the British team can continue to close in on Red Bull.

The next challenge is at the Monza circuitfollowed by dates in Azerbaijan, Singapore and the American tour which includes races in the United States, Mexico and Brazil. The shutdown will take place in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. In this final stage of the season, every point will be important to determine if Red Bull maintains its dominance or if McLaren manages to strike.

Despite the mounting pressure, Horner remains calm: “We know we shouldn’t panicwe are only focused on improving the situation”he assured. The final stage of the championship will determine whether Red Bull can maintain its lead or whether McLaren’s momentum can change the landscape of Formula 1.

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