British Media: Norris 'Will Be Nervous' After Las Vegas DSQ
McLaren's double disqualification from the Las Vegas GP for a technical infringement under 1mm has re-opened the F1 title race. British media, including the BBC, The Guardian, and Daily Mail, widely reacted, noting that Lando Norris is now under immense pressure from a resurgent Max Verstappen. What seemed like a comfortable lead has transformed into a nail-biting, wide-open contest as the championship heads into its final two races.
Lando Norris's championship aspirations took a significant hit after McLaren's double disqualification from the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The British media widely reacted to the stewards' decision, which saw both Norris and Oscar Piastri stripped of their points due to a technical infringement just under a millimeter in scale. This ruling has dramatically re-opened the title race, with Max Verstappen now positioned as a serious contender, putting immense pressure on Norris as the season heads into its final two races.
Why it matters:
After Norris initially finished second, seemingly solidifying his championship lead, the disqualification for a minor technicality has thrown the entire title fight into uncertainty. This decision not only cost McLaren crucial points but also shifted the psychological momentum, transforming what seemed like a comfortable lead for Norris into a tense battle. The championship, once leaning heavily in Norris's favor, is now a wide-open contest, intensifying the drama for the season's climax.
The Details:
- BBC's Perspective: The BBC acknowledged the substantial points loss but emphasized that the title remains Norris's to lose. However, they highlighted that Verstappen has become a more formidable threat, especially given his recent strong performances. While challenging, closing a 12-point average over two races is not unprecedented, referencing Verstappen's 64-point gain over four races against Piastri earlier in the season. Norris could still secure the title in Qatar if he gains just two points more than his rivals over the Grand Prix and Sprint Race weekend; otherwise, the fight continues to Abu Dhabi.
- The Guardian's Take: The Guardian focused on Verstappen's newfound momentum, describing the disqualification as an "unexpected gift." This development has allowed Verstappen to exert immense pressure without anything to lose. His dominant performance in the dry conditions of Las Vegas underscored his and Red Bull's determination to fight until the very end, demonstrating a late-season surge that has been highly impressive.
- Daily Mail's Analysis: The Daily Mail pointed out the significant pressure now squarely on Norris. The race result, before the disqualification, would have placed him in a much stronger position for the championship finale. The article suggested that McLaren's push "beyond the limit" might indicate their desperation to gain an edge, further adding to the pressure. They concluded that Norris "will be nervous now" with Verstappen, described as the "biggest of all Dutch beasts," closing in on his championship dreams.
What's next:
The championship battle now intensifies with only two races remaining. The psychological impact of the disqualification will be a critical factor for Norris, who must now contend with a highly motivated Verstappen. The upcoming Qatar Grand Prix, with its Sprint Race format, presents an immediate opportunity for Norris to regain control, but also for Verstappen to further narrow the gap. The F1 community, including fans and pundits, is keenly watching to see how this dramatic turn of events will influence the ultimate outcome of the 2024 season, promising a thrilling conclusion to an already exciting championship fight.