Max at Lusail International Circuit: 'They should be free to race'

Published on 27 November 2025 by Stefan Meens

Ahead of this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix, the penultimate round of the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship, Max Verstappen spoke to the press in the Lusail International Circuit paddock to preview the upcoming two events. The Dutchman goes into the Qatar weekend with a 24-point gap to championship leader Lando Norris following the disqualification of both McLarens at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

“I was already on the plane back home when I heard the news about the disqualification. I knew that there was an investigation into the plank, which is something that’s difficult to argue against”, said Max. “Of course, every team wants to go as low as possible with the ride height and sometimes it is difficult to determine the limit. But that isn’t an excise. If it’s worn too much, it’s too much. That’s just the rule, like all the other rules in the sport.”

The Dutchman added: “Of course, the gap in the championship has become smaller, but it’s still 24 points. All lot of things would have to fall in our favour to still have a chance, but at least that chance is slightly bigger. But we also know that even if we win everything, we still need some luck. In that regard, nothing changes; we go all-in and we have nothing to lose.

McLaren have stated multiple times throughout the season that they are not intending on using team orders, a decision the Dutchman agrees with. “It’s probably not a good idea to use team order. Just let them race. Why would you all of a sudden say to Oscar that he can’t race? If they’d told me that, I just wouldn’t turn up. If you’re a real winner, a real racer and driver, then you go for it, even if you’re trailing in the points. It’s the same gap for me and Oscar, so a lot has to come our way so I think they should be free to race.”