After a dominant victory in the Brazilian Grand Prix on Sunday, Max Verstappen is now on the verge of clinching his fourth Formula 1 World Championship, with Las Vegas set to be the stage for his potential triumph.
Verstappen’s performance in Brazil was nothing short of impressive. Starting from 17th on the grid, the Dutchman showcased his skill in wet conditions, charging through the field to take the chequered flag. Additionally, Verstappen set the fastest lap of the race, extending his lead in the drivers’ standings to a commanding 62 points.
Lando Norris, Verstappen’s nearest competitor, had a disappointing race. After starting from pole position, the McLaren driver fell down the order and ended up finishing sixth. Norris had hoped to narrow the gap to Verstappen but instead saw his title challenge falter further.
When asked about the possibility of securing the championship in Las Vegas, Verstappen remained focused, stating, “From now, I just want clean races to the end. I’m not thinking about clinching the championship in Vegas or whatever. I just want clean races.” However, after his first win since June, Verstappen may very well be eager to seal the title on the streets of Las Vegas on November 23rd.
With only two races, a sprint race, and a potential fastest lap up for grabs, there are 60 points still available. If Verstappen wins the Las Vegas Grand Prix, he will join an elite group of drivers—Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel—each with four world championships. Verstappen’s victory in Las Vegas would also repeat his success on the Strip from last year, further solidifying his place in F1 history.
For Norris to keep his slim title hopes alive, he must outscore Verstappen by at least three points in Vegas. This means that if Norris finishes eighth or lower without securing the fastest lap point, Verstappen will be crowned champion, regardless of his own result.
Despite McLaren and Ferrari surpassing Red Bull in terms of speed and results this year, Verstappen is poised to secure his fourth consecutive title. Only Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, and Juan Manuel Fangio have managed such a feat, with Michael Schumacher holding the record for five consecutive championships from 2000 to 2004.
With Verstappen on the cusp of making history, all eyes will be on him as he heads to Las Vegas, where he could cement his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
