McLaren will not be able to match the final car update from Red Bull.

      "This will not occur for the remainder of the season."

      McLaren is committed to maintaining its position in the title race, despite Red Bull's latest upgrade and the increasing pressure from Max Verstappen. Helmut Marko disclosed in Austin that Red Bull still has "another update for the car" as the championship contest intensifies. "A 40-point deficit makes it a bit of a stretch to label it a striking distance," Marko stated to Sky Deutschland. "However, with five races and two sprints left, it can still become quite thrilling."

      While Red Bull seems to be gaining momentum, many in the paddock suspect that McLaren has reached a plateau. Nevertheless, team principal Andrea Stella remarks that the data from Austin was promising. "Regarding trends, the race was somewhat reassuring because, without the tussle with Charles (Leclerc), which was definitely entertaining, I believe Lando had the pace to win," Stella commented. However, he confirmed that McLaren's development efforts are concluded. "In terms of new upgrades and parts, this will not occur for the rest of the season."

      Mercedes chief Toto Wolff, on the other hand, says he is intrigued by the three-way title battle. "I've faced a similar situation before, when two drivers were contending for the championship and another driver was closely trailing," he noted. "Back then, it was Max, followed by Sebastian (Vettel) hot on their trail." Wolff thinks Verstappen, whom he still aspires to attract to Mercedes in 2027, is thriving in the competition. "The underdog always possesses a psychological edge," he remarked.

      "The likelihood is certainly against Max. However, a single retirement can alter everything. This can influence driving too—how aggressively one can approach overtaking maneuvers. We nearly witnessed that with Lando," he added after the US GP. The Austrian also commended Verstappen's performance. "He’s performing at an exceptional level as a driver."

      As the season finale approaches, excitement is building. Former driver Robert Doornbos mentioned to Ziggo Sport: "I spoke to someone from the Abu Dhabi circuit today, and everything was already sold out—there was nothing left."

      Even though Oscar Piastri is currently leading the standings, Doornbos believes the Australian's team is being too cautious. "They all remain politically correct," he observed, noting this about Oscar Piastri as well. "I've already stated: 'Where’s that fire in his eyes?' It’s always about safeguarding the team. One might say 'excellent media training,' but there’s a lack of a driver who displays bite."

      Piastri himself remains calm despite Verstappen's strong late-season performance. "I still prefer my position to the other two," he remarked. "Max has certainly improved significantly in the last few races. But if we can rediscover our pace, I'm not concerned. The championship is still lengthy, and the gap isn’t particularly small with five races remaining."