Stella: "That's why I have the utmost respect for Verstappen and Red Bull"

Stella used to work with Michael Schumacher and when asked by Corriere dello Sport about a comparison between the record champion and Verstappen, he says:"Several times in this World Cup I thought back to 2004, when I wasat Ferrari. We had won 12 of the first 13 races. Even back then, when we dominated, winning was never easy. That's why I have the utmost respect for Max and for Red Bull."

The RB19 is a hugely fast car, that is beyond dispute. Yet it is "not enough to have the best car", the McLaren team boss argues. On all facets, it needs to be maximised to keep winning in the king class of motorsport for so long. "They win because they are the best in every area. Including the driver."

Norris and Piastri

Verstappen has already won nine Grands Prix in a row, making the Dutchman the best driver in the field at the moment. That McLaren has yet to win a Grand Prix this year has nothing to do with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Stella is extremely happy with the current driver duo. Both drivers are getting the most out of the current package.

Lando Norris is fixed at McLaren for the time being (until 2025), yet he has been mentioned to other teams (including Red Bull). Stella understands. "It makes sense, if I was in another team, I would try to figure out how to bring him in. We want to avoid it happening to us. Apart from the contractual aspects, it is a special goal to be able to win together. To give him and Oscar a competitive car, without it you struggle to retain a driver. And that's understandable," he explained.

With Piastri, McLaren has a rookie in the car this year, but it is not really noticeable. The Australian is holding his own well. "We knew his results in the junior categories, which is why we went all out to contract him. From the first test, Oscar's qualities emerged. He grows with every session, every race, it's a skill I've only seen in the best drivers."