As the 2024 Formula 1 season approaches its climax, the competition intensifies. Max Verstappen is facing a formidable challenge from Lando Norris in the drivers’ standings, while McLaren is in a tight race with Ferrari for the constructors’ title. After securing his third championship in 2023, Verstappen aims to repeat his success, but how soon could he clinch the title this time around?
How Many Points Are Left in the Drivers’ Championship?
There are 120 points available in the remaining four races of the season. A driver can achieve this maximum by winning all four Grands Prix (each awarding 25 points), claiming victory in both Sprints in São Paulo and Qatar (earning eight points each), and securing an additional point for the fastest lap in every race.
When’s the Earliest Verstappen Can Win the Title?
Mathematically, Verstappen could secure the drivers’ championship as early as the Las Vegas Grand Prix. For this scenario to unfold, Verstappen must score maximum points in both São Paulo and Las Vegas, while Norris would need to finish without scoring any points. If this occurs, Verstappen would establish an unbeatable lead of 106 points heading into the final two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
What Does Norris Need to Beat Verstappen?
For Norris to have a chance at the title, he must outscore Verstappen at every remaining event. If they finish each race in a one-two formation, with Norris ahead, the championship battle would extend to Abu Dhabi. In this case, Verstappen would hold a 24-point lead going into the final race, and if they again finish in that formation, Verstappen would still win by 17 points.
Norris’s recent performance, including a strong showing at the Mexico City Grand Prix, has reduced his deficit to 47 points. However, he needs consistent high finishes and at least one standout weekend to close the gap further.
Can Anyone Else Still Beat Verstappen and Norris?
Two other drivers, Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri, remain in the championship conversation. Leclerc is currently 71 points behind Verstappen, while Piastri trails by 111 points. Given the available points, Piastri would need to maximize his scoring while hoping Verstappen and Norris score minimally. Leclerc, although facing long odds, could also make a late-season push if he maintains his recent form.
Constructors’ Championship Battle
In the constructors’ standings, McLaren leads Ferrari by 29 points with 206 points still up for grabs. If Ferrari can score maximum points in São Paulo while McLaren finishes lower, they could close the gap significantly. Conversely, if McLaren achieves maximum points in both São Paulo and Las Vegas while Ferrari scores nothing, McLaren could clinch the title as early as Vegas.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Formula 1 season is shaping up to be an exhilarating finale, with Max Verstappen in a prime position to potentially secure the championship soon. As the battles intensify among drivers and teams, fans eagerly await the next races to see how the championship landscape unfolds. Will Verstappen dominate once more, or can Norris and others mount a successful challenge? Only time will tell.
