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Photo: RacePictures.

Tsunoda’s crucial dilemma: Verstappen’s teammate demands ‘exposed’

18:31, 04 Nov

byNorberto Mujica

According to Dutch commentator Nelson Valkenburg, Max Verstappen would want a teammate who’s closer to him, but who can’t beat him either.

“It is interesting to see that Max, who usually just focuses on himself anyway, because that’s the way he operates at this highest level, but he needs some back-up.”

- Nelson Valkenburg.

Although Verstappen has argued time and time against being involved in Red Bull’s decision of who the team chooses to line up alongside him, pundits continue to claim otherwise.

Such is the case for Valkenburg who recently made appearance on The Race’s podcast stating what he believed to be Verstappen’s requirements for whoever drives the second Red Bull car.

He said: “It is interesting to see that Max, who usually just focuses on himself anyway, because that’s the way he operates at this highest level, but he needs some back-up.”

Photo: Race Pictures

“So, I know, for certain, he would like a driver that is closer, but that wouldn’t beat him,” outlining the tricky conditions Verstappen’s teammate would have to navigate.

Valkenburg is of the opinion that Tsunoda is still unable to comply with such pernickety parameters.

“So, closer that there is at least the option of a strategic call. He might need that in the final four races. That’s not yet where Tsunoda is,” he concluded, alluding to the tough endeavour Verstappen is faced with in his bid to clinch his fifth world title on the trot.

Ecclestone chooses Verstappen as favourite

Former F1 Supremo, Bernie Ecclestone, has dubbed Verstappen as the favorite for the 2025 F1 title despite trailing both McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in the Standings, praising his driving and focus, as the trio of title contenders enter the Sao Paulo sprint weekend separated by 36 points, with 33 points up for grabs across the event.

Ecclestone also claimed he expected Oscar Piastri to clinch the title easily earlier in the season, but claimed something was holding him back, suggesting possible team favoritism toward Norris. He argued Norris being crowned champion would be 'better' for McLaren due to Norris’s star quality and media-friendly presence. Read more here.

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