Max Verstappen has a simple reason for strolling into Formula 1’s three-way title showdown with zero stress: “I’ve got four of those trophies at home."

The defending champion has surged back into the championship fight after capitalizing on McLaren’s internal chaos between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, turning what once looked like a dead season into a genuine title bid.

Heading into Abu Dhabi, Verstappen sits 12 points behind Norris — needing a top-three finish to stay alive.

At Thursday’s press conference, Verstappen sat beside Norris, Piastri, and the world championship trophy itself — the same one that already carries his signature four times.

Subtle brag from the four-time WDC Max Verstappen as he looks for his fifth 🏆😅 pic.twitter.com/Fe1UZcoCNZ — ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) Decembe

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