Stella’s stance: Verstappen remains dangerous despite a 94-point deficit
What has looked for months like an intra-team duel at McLaren between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris still has a looming third act, according to team principal Andrea Stella. Even with defending champion Max Verstappen trailing by 94 points, Stella isn’t writing off a comeback.
After Verstappen delivered a second consecutive pole by staying composed amid Baku’s qualifying chaos, Stella reiterated his view: asked if the Dutchman remains a title threat, his answer was “a firm yes.” The message is clear — pace, pedigree and pressure moments can still tilt a long championship.
Context and why it matters
- Verstappen has taken back-to-back poles, including in Baku’s stop-start session
- McLaren’s apparent two-way fight (Piastri vs Norris) leaves no room for complacency
- Consistency, development and race-day execution will dictate whether the gap can close
With another statement Saturday behind him, Verstappen continues to apply pressure. McLaren, for its part, is keeping the front door firmly bolted — but not pretending it’s the only house on the block.
