Norris Won't Rule Out Verstappen for F1 Title Despite Points Gap

Lando Norris, fresh off his seventh win of the season at Interlagos, refused to count out Max Verstappen as a title threat, even after extending his lead in the drivers' standings. Verstappen mounted a stunning recovery drive from the pit lane to finish third, showcasing his relentless pace.

Why it matters:

• This season's F1 championship is shaping up to be a thrilling battle, with Norris currently leading but acknowledging Verstappen's consistent threat.
• Despite a significant points gap, Norris recognizes Verstappen's ability to maximize any situation, making the Red Bull driver a perennial contender.
• The dynamic between the two drivers sets the stage for a compelling remainder of the season, highlighting the high stakes and competitive nature of modern Formula 1.

The Details:

• Interlagos Victory: Lando Norris secured his seventh win of the season, starting from pole position at Interlagos.
• Verstappen's Comeback: Max Verstappen started from the pit lane after a Q1 exit and impressively finished third, right behind Kimi Antonelli.
• Norris's Perspective: Post-race, Norris stated, "He'll be a threat — he always is. He's always there, he's always fighting, and I'm sure he'll fight to the end."
• Championship Standings: Norris currently leads Verstappen by 49 points in the drivers' standings, with teammate Oscar Piastri in second, 24 points behind Norris.
• McLaren's Dominance: Norris emphasized that McLaren maximized their weekend performance, which is their primary focus.

What's next:

Norris expects Verstappen to continue fighting until the very end, acknowledging that the championship is far from decided. The Briton looks forward to the ongoing battle, highlighting the unpredictable nature of racing where mistakes can happen. As the season progresses, every race will be crucial for both drivers in their quest for the Formula 1 world title.