Max Verstappen, the three-time world champion, is on the precipice of becoming the third driver to successfully win his fourth consecutive title in Formula 1, sharing his accolades alongside Sebastian Vettel and Juan Manual Fangio.
The Flying Dutchman currently has a 62-point lead over his British rival, Lando Norris, who wants to upset the party even more. Red Bull has been demoted to third in the Constructors Championship, with McLaren leading the battle by 36 points ahead of Ferrari and an additional 13 points ahead of the Milton Keynes-based team in third.
But while the constructors are also on the mind of the three-time world champion, Verstappen will still feel the need to self-serve. There are a maximum of 86 points left in the 2024 Formula 1 World Championship.
In a sport that demands 110%, every point will matter, whether big or small. In the case of Max Verstappen, we may see more brutality from the leader of the driver’s title. To chase down crown number four.
What Does Max Verstappen Need To Win?
One important question in the paddock is how many points Max Verstappen needs to outscore Lando Norris to become world champion.
We know that Max needs to finish ahead of Norris to take the crown. Or is there another structure for Verstappen to win
Max would become world champion for the fourth time If he finishes ahead of Lando in any position or:
If Lando finishes 2nd and Max finishes 3rd with the fastest lap.
If Lando finishes 3rd and Max finishes 4th with the fastest lap.
If Lando finishes 4th and cannot achieve the fastest lap, Max must finish 5th.
If Lando finishes 5th and cannot achieve the fastest lap, Max must finish 6th.
If Lando finishes 6th and cannot achieve the fastest lap, Max must finish 7th.
If Lando finishes 7th and cannot achieve the fastest lap, Max must finish 8th.
If Lando finishes 8th and cannot achieve the fastest lap, Max must finish 9th.
If Lando finishes 9th and cannot achieve the fastest lap, Max will be champion if he finishes outside the top 10.
However, if Max was to finish behind Norris, he could not allow the Brit to score more than three points. Meaning the Dutchman would have to wait until Qatar.
Can Norris Upset Verstappen’s Hunt For The Title?
Last time out, Max Verstappen has proven that he can overcome anything, even when the odds are against him, especially during the Brazilian Grand Prix. Starting from 17th, the odds were for Max to get back into the points, proving them wrong again as he took the chequered flag, finishing first place, and Norris finished sixth.
A driver who faced remarkable odds and perseveres embodies the definition of a Formula 1 World Champion. And if Max does not start in pole position for the Grand Prix in Las Vegas, his unique driving style, which so many people have come to question, will need to play its hand.
But can Max flush Norris? Or can the Brit, with the help of his team-mate, create a full house with a 1-2 finish to keep his championship aspirations alive?
If you would like to learn more news about the world of Formula 1? Then why not check out “Will Formula 1 Make a Historic Return to Africa?” or “Alpine Secures Their First Double Podium Finish in Formula 1!”