Max Verstappen delivered blow to F1 title hopes: 'An illusion'

Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher does not believe Max Verstappen has a strong chance of winning the drivers' title this year. Verstappen entered the campaign looking to secure his fifth consecutive championship - a feat achieved just once before by Ralf's brother, Michael. The Dutchman has won twice in the opening nine rounds, with McLaren notably possessing the strongest car. Oscar Piastri leads the drivers' standings ahead of team-mate Lando Norris, while Verstappen lingers in third - 49 points down on the Australian. Schumacher does not believe a fifth title this year is a realistic possibility for Verstappen. “I think the title this year is an illusion," he told Sky Deutschland .  “Max may be able to make the difference, but not always. The car is not performing well, the team is unfortunately not performing well.  “Max cannot bridge that difference in the long run. He doesn't stand a chance against McLaren, unless the two McLaren drivers cancel each other out.” This weekend sees the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve host the Canadian Grand Prix, an event Verstappen has triumphed at on the previous three visits. However, Schumacher expects McLaren will once again be in top form. “I would almost say McLaren can only beat themselves,” he added.  “I think Verstappen will be a little closer again, partly because the Red Bull demands a little more from the tyres. “It could be better. Ferrari I think is quite difficult to assess. It is a special circuit.  “You should never forget the erratic weather conditions. We've seen that many times there. McLaren, the all-rounder, will perform well.”