Alonso defends Verstappen amid title slump

If Max Verstappen fails to secure the 2025 drivers' world championship, Fernando Alonso says the blame won't lie with the Dutch driver.

Alonso, now 43, has built a mutual respect with the reigning champion despite their age gap.

Speaking to DAZN, the two-time world champion made it clear that Verstappen continues to deliver peak performances regardless of the machinery beneath him.

"He's always having his best season to date - every year," Alonso said. "Last year, he didn't have the most dominant car, and yet he still won the championship with two or three races to go. This year, he doesn't even have the second or third best car, and he's still fighting.

"He's always at the top level, but it's another thing for Red Bull to now give him a car that allows him to fight for the championship. But you can never doubt Max."

Despite Verstappen’s talent, the 2025 campaign is shaping up to be a challenge.

After the Spanish GP, he sits third in the standings, trailing leader Oscar Piastri by nearly 50 points as McLaren continues to dominate.

Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher told Sky Deutschland that Verstappen's title hopes may already be over.

"I think Max winning the title this year is out of reach," he said. "Max can make the difference, but not always, and the car isn't pulling its weight, and unfortunately the team isn't pulling its weight. Max can't bridge a gap like this over a longer period.

"He won't have a chance against McLaren unless the two McLaren drivers shoot each other down." Schumacher believes McLaren’s recent form makes them clear favourites heading into the Canadian Grand Prix.

"I'd almost say they can only beat themselves," he added. "I think Verstappen will get a bit closer there because the Red Bull is a bit more demanding on the tyres, but that doesn't mean McLaren - the all-rounder - won't still be the best."