Lando Norris branded ‘cocky’ as F1 legend makes brutal title showdown prediction
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Lando Norris remained in contention for the F1 world title after a dramatic Qatar Grand Prix, where he faced a blunder from McLaren. Heading into Abu Dhabi, he required only a podium finish to secure the championship, with Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri trailing closely. Verstappen needed to win and rely on Norris finishing fourth or lower to reclaim the title.
Source: Original report
Lando Norris needs to secure a podium finish at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday to clinch his first Formula One world title, according to Bernie Ecclestone. The former F1 chief stated that despite a recent blunder by McLaren in Qatar, Norris remains the favourite to become the first British world champion since Lewis Hamilton, with rivals Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri trailing him by 12 and 16 points, respectively.
Ecclestone’s comments come as the title race reaches its climax. He has predicted that Verstappen will ultimately claim his fifth consecutive title, suggesting that the Dutch driver must win the race while hoping Norris fails to achieve a top-three finish, which was the case in Qatar.
Verstappen’s Title Path
Max Verstappen can win the championship if he triumphs in Abu Dhabi and Norris finishes fourth or lower. Should Verstappen finish second, Norris must come in eighth or lower, while if Verstappen takes third, Norris would need to finish ninth or lower, with Piastri finishing second or lower for Verstappen to secure the title.
Ecclestone praised Verstappen’s abilities, stating, “I still believe Max will do it.” He noted that, while Norris is a talented driver, he could be “over-confident” and nervous during critical moments, which may hinder his performance in the title-deciding race.
Verstappen Responds to Comparisons
In related news, Verstappen responded to comments made by McLaren CEO Zak Brown, who compared him to a horror movie villain in his competitive pursuit of Norris and Piastri. Verstappen quipped, “He can call me Chucky,” embracing the light-hearted comparison ahead of the final race weekend.
As the championship battle intensifies, all eyes will be on Abu Dhabi, where the final outcomes will determine the fate of the 2024 Formula One World Championship.