Stella praises Verstappen: 'Heading for fourth title, well deserved'
F1 News
Following Max Verstappen's victory at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella does realise Lando Norris is in a complicated position in his title battle. The Italian underlined however that does not change their mindset entering the final tripleheader of the year.
Verstappen put down a statement result in Brazil last Sunday. After getting knocked out in Q2 in qualifying and having a five-place grid penalty, he started in P17 at Interlagos, but eventually won by nearly 20 seconds ahead of Esteban Ocon. It was the Dutchman's eighth victory this year.
Meanwhile, after starting from pole position, Lando Norris could only finish in P6, after Verstappen could get a 'free' pit stop because of the red flag caused by Franco Colapinto, and also making mistakes on both rolling restarts. Now, he is in a complicated situation in the drivers' standings in the clash for the title.
"Well the belief always depends on the mathematical possibility. Clearly Max today gave a strong signal, I would say from the numerical point of view and also a reminder of how strong he is. We have always recognised his qualities. Three times world champion, now heading for a fourth title. Very well deserved. But as soon as we are mathematically in contention, we will try and disturb his run to the fourth title," Stella told Viaplay.
On the other hand, McLaren could still outscore Ferrari, extending their lead in the constructors' championship over their Italian rivals. "But still with good points it was important to stay in the race. If you look at the constructors championship it’s important to that we outscore Ferrari and this sets the situation strongly for the final part of the season."
Stella praises Verstappen
Thanks to his victory and setting the fastest lap of the race, Verstappen now leads by 62 points ahead of Lando Norris in the standings. "I would also like to take the opportunity to congratulate with Max for a really very strong, impressive race starting from the back of the grid, and Alpine they've done a good job so, they deserve to score the podium today well done to them. There's a few things we need to look into from our side," the Italian added praising Verstappen at Interlagos.
This article was written in collaboration with Jarlo van der Vloed
Want more Formula 1? Then follow GPblog on our various social media channels!