Lando Norris rates chances of beating Max Verstappen to F1 title with….read more.
Lando Norris has expressed confidence in his chances of overtaking Max Verstappen to win the Formula 1 World Championship this year, with six races remaining in the season. After securing a remarkable victory at the Singapore Grand Prix, Norris believes it’s “possible” for him to close the gap in the Drivers’ Championship and claim the title. This victory reduced Verstappen’s lead to 52 points, keeping Norris within striking distance as the season draws to a close.
Norris delivered an impressive performance in Singapore, leading from start to finish at the Marina Bay circuit. His win, coupled with Max Verstappen’s recent struggles, has raised hopes that the British driver could mount a serious challenge for the championship. Verstappen, who dominated the early part of the season, has seen his fortunes change dramatically, leaving room for Norris and other rivals to catch up.
Speaking after the race, Norris acknowledged the importance of maintaining his current form if he is to surpass Verstappen. “This is what I’ve got to do, this is what I need,” Norris told Sky Sports. “This is what we need to do as a team. We’ve executed things perfectly as a team and especially to get Oscar [Piastri] in P3 today. But we need to do it at every race until the end of the year if I want to have a chance to get Max. But we’re working hard and if I keep doing what I’ve done this weekend, then it’s definitely possible.”
Verstappen, who appeared to be cruising towards his fourth consecutive world title after winning seven of the first 10 races of the season, has faced a significant downturn in recent months. Red Bull, once dominant, has been challenged by rival teams, particularly McLaren, which now sits at the top of the Constructors’ Championship standings. McLaren’s resurgence has been a key factor in Norris’s optimism, as the team has shown the pace and consistency needed to compete with Red Bull.
Reflecting on his performance in Singapore, Norris explained that he felt comfortable throughout the race, despite a few tense moments. “A lot of it was pretty straightforward and I was very comfortable,” he said. “Of course, there were a couple of moments which were a little too close for my liking. But it was good; the car’s been mega all weekend, I feel like I’ve been on good form the whole weekend. I’ve been able to be comfortable and execute well and get the most out of the car.”
Norris emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong rhythm during the race, which allowed him to capitalize on the car’s speed and deliver a flawless performance. “We were just quick, and as soon as I got back in a good rhythm we were quick again. It was a good day, it’s been a great weekend in fact,” he added.
The 24-year-old driver also discussed the physical and mental challenges of racing in Singapore, a circuit known for its demanding conditions. “It was mentally tough, physically tough. Sweating a lot, it’s pretty hot in the car – it’s extremely hot in the car actually. Tough conditions for us as drivers. It’s not easy. It doesn’t look it on the TV but let me assure you inside the car it’s tougher than a lot of sports, and it’s tougher than what it looks,” he said.
Norris highlighted the physical demands placed on Formula 1 drivers, stressing that they must perform at the highest level possible. “We’re performing at the top level of what we can perform at as humans. That’s why we’re athletes. But that’s our task, that’s my job – to make sure I’m fit and performing well,” he concluded.
With six races remaining in the season, Norris’s recent form has reignited the championship race. Although Verstappen remains the favorite to win, Norris’s confidence and McLaren’s improved performance suggest that the title is still up for grabs. If Norris can continue to replicate his success in Singapore, the final stretch of the season promises to be an exciting battle between the two drivers.
