Lando Norris has declared that chasing down Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen in the 2024 title race is “definitely possible” after his dominant victory at the Singapore Grand Prix. The McLaren driver showcased blistering pace, beating the Red Bull ace by over 20 seconds at the Marina Bay Circuit, significantly reducing Verstappen’s lead in the Drivers’ Championship.
With only six races remaining in the season, including three Sprint weekends, Norris has narrowed Verstappen’s lead to 52 points. With 180 points still up for grabs, the Brit is optimistic about his chances of pulling off a dramatic comeback and making the title battle go down to the wire.
Norris emphasized that consistency will be key over the final rounds, acknowledging that the Red Bull-Verstappen pairing remains one of the most dominant forces in F1 history. However, McLaren’s recent improvements, particularly their innovations in aerodynamic design, have given them an edge.
To catch Verstappen, Norris will need to cut the Dutchman’s lead by an average of 8.66 points per weekend. While it sounds like a steep hill to climb, the inclusion of three Sprint races gives Norris extra opportunities to claw back points. The final race in Abu Dhabi, which does not include a Sprint, will require Norris to be within 26 points of Verstappen to have a chance at stealing the title in the final showdown.
When asked if he expects the title race to go down to the wire, Norris was hopeful but realistic.
But Norris is counting on McLaren’s ability to out-think and out-perform their rivals. He praised his team for their technical innovations and strategic execution, hinting at aerodynamic enhancements like “mini-DRS flaps” that have contributed to their recent success.
Norris’ confidence is bolstered by McLaren’s impressive form as a team. In Singapore, teammate Oscar Piastri joined Norris on the podium, securing third place and extending McLaren’s lead over Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship to 41 points. With McLaren’s MCL38 showing impressive pace, team principal Andrea Stella believes they are in a strong position for both championships, though he acknowledged that the Drivers’ Championship is still largely in Verstappen’s hands.
Looking ahead to the final rounds of the season, Stella stressed the importance of consistently finishing races ahead of Verstappen, particularly in the Sprint weekends where points can be won quickly.
McLaren’s strategy moving forward will hinge on not only maintaining their recent form but also ensuring that both Norris and Piastri deliver strong results consistently. According to Stella, if McLaren can continue to unlock the full potential of their car, they can keep the pressure on Verstappen and make a late-season charge for the title.
The F1 season resumes with the United States Grand Prix in Austin on October 18-20, marking the start of a crucial stretch for Norris and McLaren. With three Sprint weekends on the horizon, every point counts as Norris looks to mount one of the greatest comebacks in modern F1 history.
Norris and McLaren have proven that they are capable of competing with the best, but with Verstappen and Red Bull still at the top of their game, the battle for the 2024 title is far from over. The final rounds promise to be an intense, nail-biting finish to the season as Norris chases his first world championship crown.
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