Brundle: Verstappen Has Different Approach When Racing Against Piastri

Martin Brundle, former Formula 1 driver and respected Sky Sports analyst, has pointed out that Max Verstappen approaches races differently depending on which McLaren driver he’s up against — Oscar Piastri or Lando Norris.

McLaren has emerged as the dominant force in the early stages of the 2025 Formula 1 season, securing five wins in six races. Oscar Piastri leads the drivers’ standings with 131 points, followed closely by Lando Norris with 115 points.

At the Miami Grand Prix, Verstappen started from pole position but dropped to fourth place after engaging in a fierce on-track battle with both McLaren drivers.

Brundle praises Piastri’s fighting spirit and growth

“One hundred percent different,” said Brundle when comparing Verstappen’s approach to racing Piastri versus Norris.

“He knows there’s a fighter spirit in Piastri, as we saw in Jeddah. Max realizes he’s dealing with a different character when Oscar is behind him.”

He continued:

“Piastri’s car positioning is very decisive. Not that Lando’s racing ability is lacking — his move on Mercedes and eventually on Max was outstanding. But Max clearly sees Piastri as more aggressive in wheel-to-wheel duels.”

Brundle also highlighted Piastri’s rapid rise, noting his four wins in the last six races, describing him as:

“calm, confident, and unflustered” and suggesting that “his racing skill may slightly edge out Lando’s.”