Max Verstappen addresses moment F1 title was 'lost'

Max Verstappen has denied his F1 title bid was undone by not winning the last two grands prix in Mexico and Brazil.

Verstappen dramatically closed the deficit to the McLaren drivers after the summer break and became a late factor in the title battle.

However, back-to-back wins for Lando Norris in Mexico and Brazil have put Verstappen 49 points down on the championship lead with three rounds remaining.

Verstappen enjoyed a successful comeback in Brazil after starting from the pit lane, rising to third place at the chequered flag.

When asked if the changes to the car after qualifying could help at the final rounds, Verstappen told media including RacingNews365: “Very different tracks, so it’s difficult to know to be honest. 

“That’s what we have to focus on. That’s what we will focus on in the coming races.”

Verstappen was largely a non-factor in the title battle in the early stage of the season, with McLaren winning 12 out of the first 15 races.

The Dutchman asserted his quest for a fifth title this year was undone by Red Bull's slow start to the year, rather than missing out on outscoring McLaren at the last two races.

“What are we - 49 points behind now? We didn’t lose the championship here or whatever,” Verstappen said. 

“We lost the championship from race one until Zandvoort. 

“We had a lot of weekends where we simply were not quick enough. Then, of course, you have a big gap. 

“Then we had good moments where you get some points back, but not enough. That’s how the season goes.”