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How Lando Norris can beat Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri to F1 title in Abu Dhabi
Lando Norris has another chance to clinch his first Formula One drivers’ championship this weekend as the 2025 season wraps up in Abu Dhabi.
“We were the ones who took the gamble today, and it was the wrong decision,” he said afterwards. “There is nothing I can do about it now. It was not my finest day in terms of driving and putting things together. That is life.
“Everyone has bad weekends. I take it on the chin, we will see what we can do in Abu Dhabi.”
He crossed the line fourth, behind Piastri and eventual winner Verstappen, meaning the 2025 season will be decided on its final day.
How can Lando Norris win the F1 championship?
Despite his struggles in Qatar, Norris is still in a strong position ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
He comes into the event with a 12-point cushion to second-placed Verstappen and a 16-point advantage over Piastri.
As such, it will require something of a disaster for the Briton to lose top spot.
Lando Norris could not secure his title at the Qatar Grand Prix
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Any podium finish, then, will be enough for Norris to be crowned world champion.
He can also win the title with a finish between fourth and sixth, provided neither Verstappen nor Piastri win the grand prix.
Should Norris finish the race in seventh or eighth place, he can maintain top spot if Verstappen finishes in third place or below, and Piastri finishes second or below.
If Norris crosses the line in ninth, tenth, or outside of the points, though, he will only clinch the title if Piastri finishes no higher than third, and Verstappen no higher than fourth.
Drivers’ Championship standings ahead of Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
|
Driver |
Team |
Points |
|
|
1 |
Lando Norris |
McLaren |
408 |
|
2 |
Max Verstappen |
Red Bull |
396 |
|
3 |
Oscar Piastri |
McLaren |
392 |
