Prost claims Verstappen remains the top driver of 2025.

      Ralf Schumacher and Alain Prost both assert that Max Verstappen was the standout driver of 2025, even though he lost the title to Lando Norris, as uncertainty continues about the future of Verstappen’s race engineer.

      Referring to Gianpiero Lambiase, Ralf mentioned on Sky Deutschland that there are "rumors in the paddock regarding his personal situation," cautioning that there is a possibility 'GP' may not return in 2026.

      "We don’t know what’s happening," Schumacher stated. "That’s why there’s a risk he won’t be present next year. Naturally, we hope not. This would be a significant blow for Max Verstappen." He emphasized that Lambiase’s role in Verstappen’s success is irreplaceable.

      "You can observe it on the radio. Lambiase is someone who can tell ‘Max, take it easy. Don’t be so childish and concentrate.’ That really works well. If Max gets a new engineer, it would take a considerable amount of time to adjust."

      This comes amid considerable changes surrounding Verstappen. All three of Red Bull’s other permanent engineers - Michael Manning, Tom Hart, and David Mart - are also departing, along with mentor and grandfather figure Dr. Helmut Marko.

      Despite the narrow finish, Schumacher believes the result does not reflect the drivers' abilities. "It’s clear that Max is the best driver in Formula 1. That’s just a fact," the German remarked. "One can also conclude that the best driver did not become world champion this year."

      He believes Verstappen has still made significant progress in 2025. "He has progressed further because he has become a true team leader - you could see that in his emotions after the race."

      Meanwhile, Sport Bild reported that Norris’ first title triggered a EUR 5 million bonus as part of his 2022 contract extension.

      Four-time world champion Alain Prost echoed Schumacher’s comments regarding the Norris versus Verstappen outcome on Canal Plus. "Incredible things have occurred with Lando," said the Frenchman and F1 legend. "At the start of the season, he wasn't particularly strong, unlike Oscar. Then he made an incredible comeback."

      "And Verstappen - he bounced back in a way no one expected." Prost mentioned that Verstappen still left the most significant impression overall. "I have to congratulate Lando, but Max is clearly above the rest," said the 70-year-old.

      He added: "All three drivers deserved recognition for different reasons. Norris has had a consistent season with the necessary flair, although perhaps not as remarkable as what Verstappen demonstrated." Prost suggested that the internal dynamics at McLaren could now change.

      "The question is whether we’ll see a new Norris now. Perhaps we’ll also see a different Piastri, as he’s the challenger. He made a strong comeback, but we must remember that Lando is ultimately British," he concluded with a wink.