Guenther Steiner’s Take on Max Verstappen’s Remarkable 2025 Season

In the world of Formula 1, few stories capture the imagination like that of a driver’s comeback. Max Verstappen, driving for Red Bull Racing, showcased an extraordinary resurgence in the 2025 season. His journey from being over 100 points behind in the championship standings to almost clinching the title is nothing short of breathtaking. However, Guenther Steiner, the former team principal of Haas, has a different perspective on Verstappen’s impressive recovery. Steiner argues that this season will not be remembered as significantly as the triumph of Lando Norris, who emerged as the champion in 2025.

The 2025 Championship Landscape

The 2025 Formula 1 season presented a fierce competition among the elite drivers. Verstappen’s struggle early in the season saw him fall drastically behind the points leader. By the time the series reached the Dutch Grand Prix, he was in a challenging position, needing not just strong performances but also a bit of luck to get back into contention for the championship.

Norris, on the other hand, exhibited a level of consistency and tactical brilliance that set him apart from his peers. His ability to capitalize on opportunities, combined with strategic decisions during races, paved the way for a historic championship victory. Even as Verstappen was mounting his impressive comeback, it was Norris who was firmly in control of his destiny.

Steiner’s Perspective on Verstappen’s Comeback

In a recent discussion on the podcast "Red Flags," Steiner shared his thoughts on Verstappen’s journey throughout the season. While recognizing the impressive nature of Verstappen’s recovery, he suggested that the long-term memory of the season would not favor the Dutch driver as much as it would Norris. Steiner expressed, “As a champion, you will always be remembered… people will recall it, but in five years, many will have forgotten this season.”

Steiner’s assertion hints at a deeper narrative within the realm of motorsport. The thrill of a comeback is exhilarating, yet history often favors those who achieve consistency and excellence over the course of a season. Verstappen’s near-miss in the title race, despite his remarkable drive, could fade into the background compared to Norris’s steady performance.

Norris’s Strategic Brilliance

The 2025 season was marked by Norris’s impressive ability to maintain form throughout the races. His strategic acumen allowed him to secure vital points in crucial moments, such as his third-place finish at the Yas Marina Circuit, which ultimately clinched the championship for him. Norris’s adeptness at navigating the complexities of each race showcased not just his driving skills, but also his understanding of race strategy—a combination that proved essential in the high-stakes environment of Formula 1.

Steiner emphasized that while Verstappen’s recovery was commendable, it wouldn’t overshadow the significance of Norris’s achievement. According to Steiner, “Norris’s victory will be remembered for the consistency and strategy he employed to secure his title, while Verstappen’s recovery, although impressive, won’t overshadow Norris’s historic season.”

The Legacy of a Champion

As Steiner reflected on the long-term implications of the 2025 season, he acknowledged that Verstappen’s legacy as a champion is secure. “Certainly, the fans and motorsport enthusiasts won’t forget, but Max will be remembered as a champion regardless,” he noted. This sentiment underscores the idea that, despite the nuances of specific seasons, the overarching narrative of a driver’s career is shaped by their achievements over time.

Verstappen’s talent and skill are undeniable, and his ability to mount a comeback speaks volumes about his capabilities as a driver. However, Steiner’s comments remind us that a championship title often holds more weight in the annals of history than a remarkable recovery that falls short of the ultimate prize.

The Role of Fans and Historians

Steiner’s insights also shed light on the role of fans and historians in shaping the narrative of a season. While die-hard fans may remember the thrilling moments of Verstappen’s comeback, the broader public may gravitate towards the stories of champions who secured their titles through consistent performance. The narratives that emerge from a season are often colored by the outcomes and the significance attributed to them by fans and media alike.

The disconnect between the excitement of a comeback and the legacy of a champion can lead to varying interpretations of a season’s importance. For fans, the drama of a close title fight can be exhilarating; however, the historical context often favors those who achieve sustained excellence.

Conclusion of the Race

As the 2025 season drew to a close, the contrasting stories of Verstappen and Norris highlighted the multifaceted nature of success in Formula 1. While Verstappen’s recovery will be remembered by many, it is the championship-winning performance of Norris that will likely leave a lasting mark on the sport. In the grand tapestry of Formula 1 history, it’s the champions who often take center stage, while the remarkable recoveries, though thrilling, fade into the background.

In the end, Steiner’s perspective serves as a reminder that in the world of motorsport, the road to victory is paved with consistency, strategy, and the ability to seize opportunities when they arise. The 2025 season will certainly be a chapter filled with excitement, but it is the legacy of champions that ultimately endures.