Max Verstappen receives 'best driver' verdict ahead of F1 title showdown

Gabriel Bortoleto believes Max Verstappen has proven himself to be the "best driver" in the 2025 F1 season, regardless of whether he wins the title or not.

Verstappen is one of three contenders for the drivers' crown in Abu Dhabi, and at worst, must finish on the podium to have any chance of overhauling Lando Norris's 12-point lead.

If Verstappen wins, Norris must be fourth or lower. If Verstappen is second, Norris must be eighth or lower, and if third, the McLaren driver must be ninth or lower.

Despite McLaren having the fastest car, Verstappen has clawed his way back into the title fight since the Italian GP, with five wins in eight races. 

Given his late surge in what has been a difficult machine, Stake driver Bortoleto believes Verstappen has earned the title of 'best driver' in 2025, title or not. 

"What happened last weekend [in Qatar] no-one really expected it could, so it is impossible to predict," Bortoleto told media, including RacingNews365. 

"My opinion is that it is super close, and it is still a gap of 12 points, and we know that there is not really much competition against Red Bull and McLaren, when Max is winning, McLaren is just there behind, so it is not going to be easy.

"The world championship is about the best driver in the world, and this season, Max has made fewer mistakes and proved he was the best driver in the world this year, so I think he deserves the title. 

"We are racing for ourselves, but in the race, if you get a blue flag, you don't want to be the reason why something happens.

"They are fighting for the world title and for the win, and realistically, we are not involved. I can do my own race and finish in a good position without getting involved."