Norris stands his ground amidst Verstappen claim<\/h2>\n
Generally speaking, the consensus in Formula 1 is that Max Verstappen is the best driver.<\/p>\n
This has been the prevailing belief amongst fans and media outlets for some time – and was only reinforced last week.<\/p>\n
Having claimed last year’s world title without the best machinery, Verstappen is threatening to give a superior car a run for its money once again.<\/p>\n For Norris and Piastri<\/a>, suggestions that the 4-time Champion is winning races in an RB21 with a major deficit is obviously at odds with their own beliefs.<\/p>\n The McLaren pair, like any F1 drivers worth their salt, see themselves as operating at the highest level.<\/p>\n It is standard practice for drivers in the best machinery to downplay their advantage and emphasise the competitiveness of other cars.<\/p>\n Not only does this serve their own interests, but it also alleviates pressure on the team to consistently win.<\/p>\n Because of this, it can hardly be a surprise that Norris gave these comments when asked about Verstappen’s suggestions he would dominate in the MCL39:<\/p>\n “I don’t mind, he can say what he wants – I don’t care, honestly.<\/em><\/p>\n “I mean everyone can say what they want, and believe what they want.<\/em><\/p>\n “I believe both Oscar and myself are good drivers. He’s better at some things, but he’s not better in every area.<\/em><\/p>\n “I have a lot of respect for Max, but I also know some things are not true.<\/em><\/p>\n “He can come and test our car any day that he wants, and I’ll be excited to see the disappointment on his face when he walks out.”<\/em><\/p>\n Regarding the development race between these teams, this weekend in Bahrain could be very insightful.<\/p>\n The Sakhir circuit will see various teams bringing their fist meaningful upgrades of 2025, which could shake up the pecking order.<\/p>\n For McLaren specifically, the circuit’s high-degradation characteristics could play into their hands.<\/p>\n Bahrain should be a strong event for the MCL39, which will test to what degree the chasing pack – including Red Bull – are capable of staying within touching distance.<\/p>\n Considering Verstappen’s strong start to 2025, the Woking-based outfit will be eager to respond with victory on Sunday.<\/p>\n For Norris and Piastri, preventing Red Bull from gathering any momentum is essential – especially given the Austrian team’s belief that new flexi-wing regulations will hurt the MCL39<\/a> later in the season.<\/p>\n In much a similar fashion to last season, the margin for error in Formula 1 is extremely small this season.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/motorsports\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2025\/04\/GP2309_104611_U1A2590-1024x683.jpg\")
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A crucial round for McLaren and Red Bull<\/h4>\n