Max Verstappen is facing the prospect of going three consecutive races without a victory as he prepares for this weekend’s Hungarian Grand Prix. The reigning world champion, who has dominated the Hungaroring since the current regulations were introduced in 2022, finds himself in an unusual position, having not won either of the last two races.

Verstappen’s last winless streak of this length was back in the 2021 season, just before Lewis Hamilton’s three-race winning streak leading up to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. As the Hungarian GP approaches, speculation is rife about what could be causing the Dutchman’s recent dip in form.

In a surprising revelation, Lando Norris shared his perspective on what might be affecting Verstappen’s performance. Speaking in an interview ahead of the Hungarian GP, Norris suggested that tire management could be a significant factor.

“Max is an incredible driver, but every racer goes through phases where things don’t click perfectly,” Norris said. “I think the recent changes in tire compounds and how they interact with the car setup might be giving him a tougher time. The margins are so fine in F1, and even a slight imbalance can make a big difference in race outcomes.”

Norris’ insight adds an intriguing layer to the narrative surrounding Verstappen’s current situation. Tire management is a crucial aspect of Formula 1, influencing everything from grip and handling to overall race strategy. If Verstappen and his team have indeed been struggling to optimize their tire performance, it could explain why he has fallen short of victory in the last two races.

The Hungarian Grand Prix will be a critical test for Verstappen and his team. A third consecutive race without a win would mark a notable departure from his recent dominance. As the F1 world watches closely, the question remains: Can Max Verstappen overcome these challenges and return to the top of the podium, or will this weekend mark an unexpected continuation of his winless streak?