Oscar Piastri has been told to "fight back now" by Jos Verstappen as his wayward form in F1 has seen him fall behind Lando Norris in the drivers' standings.
The Australian held a healthy 34-point advantage over his McLaren team-mate just five rounds ago, but poor form has loosened his once-tight grip on the title fight.
Further adding to the jeopardy, Max Verstappen has thrust himself back into contention, as he pursues a fifth-successive crown.
With only four rounds to go, the Dutchman is just 35 points adrift of Piastri, who is now one point behind Norris.
Speaking to De Telegraaf, Verstappen Sr. pointed to the bizarre loss of performance the nine-time grand prix winner has suffered of late.
He said: "I find it quite strange what's happening at McLaren. Surely Piastri hasn't suddenly forgotten how to drive?
"If I were him, or his manager [Mark Webber], I'd definitely put my foot down internally."
The two-time F1 podium finisher highlighted that the underwhelming period has shattered the illusion that Piastri is an unflappable character.
"Because now everyone's wondering if he can handle the pressure. And that's not good for your own reputation, Piastri's in this case," the 53-year-old added.
There have been accusations of impropriety at McLaren, with some arguing Norris is being favoured amid far-fetched rumours of sabotage to Piastri's MCL39.
Verstappen was careful to avoid the unfounded speculation, but doubled down on his opinion that Piastri's allure has been destroyed.
"It might automatically smell like that, but I have no insight into it," the former Benetton, Simtek, Footwork, Tyrrell, Stewart, Arrows and Minardi driver said.
"But if I were Piastri, I would fight back now. Everyone assumed he would become champion, and that perception has changed very quickly."
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