Max Verstappen has a simple reason for strolling into Formula 1’s three-way title showdown with zero stress: “I’ve got four of those trophies at home.”
The defending champion has surged back into the championship fight after capitalizing on McLaren’s internal chaos between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, turning what once looked like a dead season into a genuine title bid.
Heading into Abu Dhabi, Verstappen sits 12 points behind Norris — needing a top-three finish to stay alive.
At Thursday’s press conference, Verstappen sat beside Norris, Piastri, and the world championship trophy itself — the same one that already carries his signature four times.
Subtle brag from the four-time WDC Max Verstappen as he looks for his fifth 🏆😅 pic.twitter.com/Fe1UZcoCNZ
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) December 4, 2025
When asked whether his past Abu Dhabi title deciders give him an advantage, the Dutchman grinned:
“The trophy looks the same. I have four of those at home… would be nice to add a fifth.”
Earlier in the year, few believed Verstappen or Red Bull would still be in the hunt — especially after the mid-season turmoil that saw the team part ways with Christian Horner. But Verstappen’s monster second half has dragged him back into contention, and he now sounds like a man simply enjoying the ride.
“I’m very relaxed. Nothing to lose. I’ve loved the second half of the season — turning things around, winning again, smiling again. Everything this weekend is a bonus.”
And win or lose on Sunday, the Dutchman insists his legacy is already complete.
“I’ve already achieved everything I wanted in F1. Everything else is just a bonus. I’m here because I love racing.”
He admits Red Bull isn’t the quickest team heading into Abu Dhabi, but if Qatar taught the world anything, it’s that chaos can strike at any time.
“We’ll try to maximise the result — whatever that even means this year. You never know what can happen.”
The most relaxed man in the championship fight? Probably the one with four trophies already sitting on his shelf.
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