Verstappen Seeks Fourth Consecutive Canadian GP Win Amid Penalty Risk

Max Verstappen is aiming for an unprecedented fourth consecutive Canadian Grand Prix victory but must avoid any penalties, as he currently has only one penalty point separating him from a race ban. Verstappen has won the last three races in Montreal and faces a qualifying showdown against Mercedes' George Russell, his recent on-track rival. Red Bull motorsport consultant Helmut Marko emphasized the importance of Verstappen avoiding rash actions to prevent missing the subsequent Austrian Grand Prix. McLaren, led by Oscar Piastri who holds a 10-point lead over teammate Lando Norris, is considered the main contender, with Mercedes hopeful of improving their performance at a track where they have historically done well. Ferrari, now second in the constructors' standings, is closing the gap to McLaren, with team boss Fred Vasseur noting progressive gains. The circuit, named after Gilles Villeneuve, holds significant history, including multiple wins by Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher, and features unpredictable weather conditions that may influence race strategies.