The 2024 Formula 1 season has been an electrifying showdown, with Max Verstappen now standing just a few steps away from claiming his fourth world title. Following an incredible victory at the São Paulo Grand Prix, Verstappen has surged ahead in the drivers’ standings, but British contender Lando Norris remains in the race. Additionally, the constructors’ championship is still up for grabs, with McLaren leading Ferrari and Red Bull close behind. Could the Las Vegas Grand Prix be where Verstappen seals his title? Here’s what he needs to do and what challenges he might face.
How Many Points Are Still Up for Grabs?
With three races left, including a Sprint race in Qatar, there are still 86 points available. A driver can maximize points by winning all three Grands Prix (25 points each), taking the Sprint in Qatar (eight points), and setting the fastest lap at each race. For Norris, each of these opportunities represents a critical chance to close the gap with Verstappen.
What Verstappen Needs to Secure the Title in Las Vegas
If Verstappen wins the Las Vegas Grand Prix, he will lock in his fourth championship title with an insurmountable lead heading into the final two races. For Verstappen, it’s all about securing that Sin City victory. But even without a win, Verstappen will secure the title as long as Norris does not outscore him by more than three points in Las Vegas. Should Verstappen fail to score any points, Norris would still need to finish 8th or higher, plus potentially earn the fastest lap, to keep the fight alive.
What Norris Needs to Win the Title
For Norris, the path to the title is challenging but not impossible. He must outscore Verstappen in each remaining race to keep his hopes alive. The 62-point deficit he currently faces means he’ll need to make up at least three points in Las Vegas to extend the title fight. A victory for Norris in Nevada would mean the championship battle continues, no matter where Verstappen finishes.
Are Any Other Drivers in Contention?
After the São Paulo Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri are out of the running for the drivers’ title. Leclerc is 86 points behind Verstappen, and even if he won all remaining races with the fastest lap, Verstappen’s higher win count would give him the title in a tie. Piastri, 131 points behind, can no longer win.
McLaren vs. Ferrari vs. Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship
The constructors’ battle is heating up, with McLaren holding a 36-point lead over Ferrari. Red Bull trails Ferrari by 13 points, and all three teams still have a shot at the title. Even a maximum point haul in Las Vegas won’t secure McLaren the title, but it could build a strong cushion heading into the final two races.
Historic Title Battles That Changed the Game
As the 2024 season reaches a climax, history reminds us that a last-minute comeback is possible. In 1976, James Hunt took the title after Niki Lauda’s dramatic comeback from injury and eventual withdrawal at Suzuka. In 2007, Kimi Raikkonen edged out Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso by a single point at the season finale. And in 2012, Sebastian Vettel overcame a near race-ending collision in Brazil to clinch his title over Fernando Alonso by three points.
Each of these moments proved that anything can happen in Formula 1’s high-stakes season finales, adding to the anticipation surrounding the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Will Las Vegas See Verstappen’s Fourth Championship?
With the pressure on Verstappen and Norris still in contention, Las Vegas promises to be a thrilling race. If Verstappen pulls off the victory, he will cement his dominance this season. Otherwise, the championship battle will go down to the wire, potentially setting up a dramatic showdown in the final races of 2024.
