Verstappen Receives 'Not Normal' Backing for F1 Title, But a 'Question Mark' Remains

Sébastien Buemi, Red Bull's simulator driver and former F1 racer, has lauded Max Verstappen as “not normal,” asserting his belief that Verstappen can secure a record-equalling fifth consecutive F1 drivers’ title in Abu Dhabi. Despite this strong backing, Buemi also highlighted a critical “question mark” regarding the final race.

Why it matters:

• Max Verstappen is attempting to overturn a 12-point deficit against Lando Norris in the final race, a remarkable comeback from being 104 points behind earlier in the season.
• A victory for Verstappen, coupled with Norris finishing off the podium, would not only secure the championship but also solidify Verstappen's place in F1 history by matching Michael Schumacher's record of five consecutive titles.
• The outcome will dictate whether Norris can clinch his maiden championship or if Verstappen will complete one of the sport's most impressive title comebacks.

The Details:

• Verstappen needs a win in Abu Dhabi and Norris to finish outside the top three to claim the championship.
• Buemi, while acknowledging Norris as the "normality" to win, stated that "Max is not normal. So with him, you never know — until the end, there is hope."
• Verstappen enters the finale on the back of consecutive victories in Las Vegas and Qatar, showcasing his formidable form.
• However, Buemi noted that McLaren had a pace advantage over Red Bull, particularly on soft tires, at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar. The gap was narrower on medium and hard compounds.
• Tyre Performance: A crucial "question mark" for Abu Dhabi is how McLaren and Red Bull will perform on different tire compounds, as specific tire performance can shift the balance of power.
  • Buemi observed that in Qatar, Verstappen was "very good on the hard and the medium, and somehow the car was not that good on the soft."

What's next:

• The season finale at the Yas Marina Circuit will be the decider, with both teams looking to optimize their setups for the specific track conditions and tire demands.
• If Verstappen succeeds, it would be a championship victory won "just because of him," highlighting his exceptional talent and ability to overcome challenges, even when the car might not be the outright fastest.
• The battle is set to be a thrilling conclusion to the F1 season, with all eyes on the strategic decisions and driver performances that will ultimately determine the 2024 champion.