Norris goes for the F1 title in Qatar: How can he achieve it? Analysis

Lando Norris Eyes the Crown at the Qatar Grand Prix

Lando Norris has the opportunity to secure the Formula 1 drivers’ championship this Sunday at the Qatar Grand Prix. After a weekend with ups and downs at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where both Norris and his McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, were disqualified, the competition intensifies. This unexpected turn has added excitement to an already tense championship, allowing Max Verstappen of Red Bull to get closer in the fight for his fifth consecutive title. With only two races remaining, the championship is at a crucial point. While Piastri won the sprint race in Qatar on Saturday, Norris still has the possibility of securing the championship with a victory on Sunday.

Current Ranking

Norris remains the favorite, although the initial advantage over Piastri and Verstappen has been significantly reduced. The disqualification in Las Vegas changed the landscape, and now the difference is minimal. Piastri won the sprint race, further narrowing the gap. Here’s how things stand ahead of Sunday’s Grand Prix, after the top three drivers scored points in the Qatar sprint race:

• Norris – 396 points
• Piastri – 374 points
• Verstappen – 371 points

How Can Norris Win the Title in Qatar?

Norris has the opportunity to win the championship in Qatar, given his current position. He is the only one who can secure the title this weekend and, in any case, will continue in the running in Abu Dhabi. With 50 points available in the two remaining races, Norris can win the title in Qatar with a victory on Sunday. To do this, he must beat Piastri by four points and Verstappen by 25. Another option is to finish second, ahead of Verstappen, and for Piastri not to reach the podium. If Norris doesn’t win in Qatar, he could still arrive in Abu Dhabi leading the championship. For Verstappen to maintain his chances in Abu Dhabi, he must be 24 points or less behind Norris. In case of a tie, tie-breaking criteria will be used, such as the number of wins and second places. Piastri could arrive in Abu Dhabi with a 25-point difference, as he shares the same number of victories as Norris. Victory in Abu Dhabi would give him nine. The F1 sprint race awards points to the top eight (8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1), while the Grand Prix awards points to the top ten (25-18-15-12-10-8-6-4-2-1).

Pilots’ Form Status

Norris has proven to be the most in-form driver recently, with podiums and victories. Despite the disqualification in Las Vegas, he maintained a good performance, even achieving pole position. Verstappen has also shown remarkable performance, with several victories since the resumption after the summer break. The Red Bull car has been key, but the talent of the four-time champion is undeniable. Piastri, on the other hand, has had difficulties in the last races. Although he won the Zandvoort Grand Prix, he has not outperformed Norris in any race since then. However, in Qatar he has led all sessions and achieved his third sprint victory.

Piastri will start from pole position in Sunday’s Grand Prix, with Norris in second place and Verstappen in third.