Lando Norris on Max Verstappen: 'Always a Threat' for the Title

Lando Norris has stated that McLaren has consistently viewed Max Verstappen as a championship threat throughout the season, irrespective of his fluctuating position in the standings. As the Abu Dhabi finale approaches, Verstappen is just 12 points behind Norris, creating a thrilling three-way title decider.

Why it matters:

• This season's championship fight has tightened significantly, with Verstappen closing a massive points gap to enter the final race with a mathematical chance at his fifth consecutive title.
• Norris, aiming for his maiden World Championship, faces immense pressure as he seeks to secure a podium finish to guarantee the title.
• The dynamic between McLaren's consistent performance and Red Bull's late-season surge sets up a compelling showdown, highlighting the strategic and mental aspects of F1 racing.

The Details:

• Verstappen's Comeback: After the Dutch Grand Prix in August, Verstappen was 104 points behind then-leader Oscar Piastri. He has steadily eroded this deficit, positioning himself for a potential championship lead in the final race.
• Norris's Perspective: Norris emphasized that McLaren has always considered Verstappen a threat, even when he was far behind in points.
  • "We've treated him as a threat the whole year, even when he was a few more points behind," Norris told media in Qatar.
  • This consistent approach reflects McLaren's awareness of Red Bull's capabilities and Verstappen's talent.
• Team Strategy: Norris confirmed that McLaren's internal meetings consistently categorize Verstappen as a threat, influencing their race-by-race strategy.
  • The team maintains a 'normal' approach, avoiding any special treatment for Verstappen's current championship position, trusting their established methods.
• Championship Scenario: Norris leads Verstappen by 12 points. Verstappen is, in turn, four points ahead of Norris's teammate Oscar Piastri, making it a thrilling three-way battle for the F1 2025 title.

What's next:

• The season finale in Abu Dhabi will determine the F1 2025 World Champion, with Norris needing a podium finish to secure his first title.
• All eyes will be on the strategies employed by McLaren and Red Bull, as well as the individual performances of Norris, Verstappen, and Piastri in this high-stakes race.
• The outcome will not only crown a champion but also set the tone for rivalries and team dynamics heading into the next F1 season.