F1 News
Verstappen certain that 'very fast' McLaren will be team to beat in 2025
Max Verstappen recently stated that McLaren had the fastest car at the start of the Formula 1 season. On Thursday in Melbourne, ahead of the season’s opening race, he was asked whether he still stood by that claim. Verstappen reaffirmed his stance, maintaining that McLaren remains the fastest team on the grid.
At a Viaplay press event in Zandvoort, which GPblog also attended, Verstappen was called upon and asked about developments for the upcoming season. The reigning Formula 1 world champion then explained that there was only one team that stood head and shoulders above the rest: McLaren. Ahead of the race weekend in Melbourne, Verstappen was again asked about this statement, and he still stands by it.
Verstappen still sure that McLaren is 'very fast'
"At certain weekends last year, they were very fast, but at other weekends, they were also fast, only then could you stay close. What I saw in Bahrain was very fast, yes," Verstappen explained to media, including GPblog. The Red Bull driver was clearly impressed by the pace of the 2024 constructors' title-winning team during the test days at the Bahrain International Circuit.
European Formula 1 viewers will have set their alarm clocks early to see if McLaren truly is the team to beat. The first free practice on Friday starts at 01:30 GMT. The second free practice will follow later, from 05:00 to 06:00. The third free practice on Saturday is again at 01:30, followed by qualifying at 05:00. Sunday's race starts at 04:00 am. All sessions throughout the weekend can be followed via GPblog.
This article was written in collaboration with Esteban den Toom
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