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Max Verstappen embraces thrilling underdog role in 2025 F1 title fight: fans cheer, not boo

David Castro by David Castro
January 28, 2026
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
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Max Verstappen embraces thrilling underdog role in 2025 F1 title fight: fans cheer, not boo

Max Verstappen, the reigning titan of Formula 1, has found himself in an unexpected underdog position in the fierce battle for the 2025 championship title. The 2025 season proved to be a nail-biting thriller, with Verstappen falling just two points short of the crown, which ultimately went to the rising star Lando Norris. This surprising turn of events has not only shaken the racing world but also revitalized a different kind of enthusiasm from fans, transforming boos into cheers for the Red Bull Racing driver.

In a candid discussion on The Fast and The Curious podcast, Verstappen reflected on his unusual role reversal. “Honestly, I’ve not changed as a person,” he stated, demonstrating his unyielding commitment to racing excellence. However, he acknowledged that being in the spotlight as a less dominant competitor naturally alters the public’s perception. “It’s just that you are in a different role naturally because you’re not winning as many races as we did before. But at the end of the day, for me, it’s more important.”

The Dutch racer admitted that the shift in fan support has been a refreshing change. “Yeah, I guess when you’re a bit of an underdog, probably that happens a bit naturally, but it is nice,” he expressed, relishing the cheers that now echo from the grandstands instead of the jeers that once followed his victories. The thrill of the competition has reignited a spark within Verstappen, as he savors the challenge of being the underdog. “Sometimes [being the underdog] was enjoyable. The second half was more enjoyable than the first half,” he revealed, hinting at a newfound enjoyment in the trials and tribulations of racing.

While many viewed the 2023 season, where he triumphed in 19 of 22 races, as the pinnacle of his career, Verstappen insists that it was not a monotonous affair. “It was not boring to me because I was always challenging myself even,” he declared. The relentless pursuit of excellence remains at the forefront of his mind, emphasizing that he is not merely coasting through races but is ever-focused on achieving remarkable results.

As the four-time world champion gears up for his 12th season in Formula 1, the anticipation is palpable, especially with a wave of new regulations set to shake up the championship landscape. Private testing for the 2026 season is already in full swing in Barcelona, with further tests scheduled in Bahrain. Verstappen’s resilience and adaptability will be put to the ultimate test in this evolving environment.

With 2025 transforming Verstappen from an untouchable champion to a fiercely competitive underdog, fans and critics alike are left wondering what the future holds for this remarkable driver. Will he reclaim his throne, or will he continue to thrive in this electrifying new role? One thing is for certain: the world of Formula 1 has never been more thrilling, and Max Verstappen is at the heart of it all.

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2025-championship-4Lando Norrismax-verstappen-enoracle-red-bull-racing
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