Initially this season, Verstappen admitted after the United States Grand Prix that securing the crown was a real possibility
This represented an important turning point, since previously he had rejected the idea
This was logical through McLaren's dominant period since the season started to the end of the summer
The data over the past month are quite remarkable
Following Zandvoort, Verstappen was 104 points adrift of Piastri in points, and 70 adrift of his teammate
Currently, he stands 40 points adrift of Piastri, whose lead over Norris now stands at only 14 points
Multiple venues to come that play the team's strong points - Brazil, Qatar and Abu Dhabi, according to team analysis
However, the champion's current performance brings everything into question
Earlier in the weekend, Andrea Stella noted that the Verstappen-Red Bull combination could be the fastest at every remaining track
As the Dutchman advances on his rivals, likewise the British driver has narrowed on Piastri - he was 34 points behind following the Dutch GP
The Australian placed behind his teammate during the Monza race, had a very poor weekend at the Azerbaijan GP, and was compromised in Marina Bay
The entire McLaren organization are moving into new territory
The drivers and the team lack experience in battling for a world crown earlier, even though the British driver pressured the champion previously
His current responsibility involves keep the team and drivers balanced and focused, to try to brush off the pressure and focus on current objectives
We keep talking about our current situation - involving close racing for race wins, an intense battle for the world title - defines Formula 1 racing
If anything, it was anomalous during our easy one-two finishes, like in Barcelona, in Bahrain, and other venues
This involves adapting to this level of tension, we intend to embrace full commitment with reduced anxiety
Ultimately, if we can find our way again, find our pace, especially for me recapture our rhythm, then I don't have any major concerns
Our upcoming actions remain simple
We keep doing our strong efforts and outcomes will automatically materialize
Elara is a financial strategist with over a decade of experience in wealth management and entrepreneurship.
