Marko is convinced that Verstappen can overtake the McLarens.

      With just four races left, Max Verstappen remains determined to catch up to McLaren’s leading pair in the world championship. The Red Bull driver is currently third with 321 points, behind Lando Norris (357) and Oscar Piastri (356) as they head into this weekend’s Brazilian GP at Interlagos, a track where Verstappen has had some of his most iconic performances.

      "We have accomplished many remarkable feats in Brazil," Dr. Helmut Marko told ntv. "If it rains, our chances of finishing ahead of both McLarens increase. We believe in our opportunity. We have the determination and a slim chance. We managed it in the last race of 2010, again in 2012, and in 2021, when Verstappen became world champion on the last lap. Max has achieved impressive things, but if he pulls off this comeback, it would be especially sensational."

      The 82-year-old Austrian also highlighted significant advancements following Red Bull’s recent restructuring after Christian Horner's departure. "All the changes and developments have aligned perfectly," Marko told the Dutch magazine Formule 1. "That’s why the car is more competitive now. With his experience, Max has regained an important voice in technical discussions. It was essential for the engineers to pay more attention to Max. They listened before, but not to the same degree as they do now."

      Red Bull’s renewed focus coincides with McLaren having halted development on their 2025 car to prioritize their 2026 project—while Red Bull introduced a sixth underbody specification in Mexico and may make further adjustments. Weather forecasts for Sao Paulo indicate the possibility of more rain, which has often suited Verstappen’s driving style.

      Meanwhile, tensions at McLaren seem to be escalating, highlighted by the current 1-point gap between the teammates. "At McLaren, Piastri is suddenly showing signs of nerves, while Norris is performing at his peak," Ralf Schumacher noted on Sky Deutschland. "He’s currently the steadier driver, but the two have had frequent clashes in the past. This could be pivotal."

      Schumacher added: "The question now is how tense things are within the team. It seems that Piastri is feeling somewhat uneasy and is perhaps overly aware of everything happening around him, which is obviously an issue. He should focus on his performance and worry less about whether the team favors someone else. The team’s priority is winning the drivers’ world championship."

      According to Schumacher, Brazil will be a pivotal weekend. "This weekend is absolutely vital. He (Verstappen) needs to narrow the gap now and may require some assistance. After Brazil, it will be clearer whether he still has a chance."